Common Name:

General Information

Allium stellerianum is a herbaceous perennial plant growing from a bulbous rootstock; each bulb produces a cluster of 4 - 6 grass-like leaves and a flowering scape 25 - 40cm tall. The bulbs are produced in groups of 1 - 3 on a short, ascending rhizome[, ].
The plant is probably harvested from the wild for local use as a food.

Known Hazards

Although no individual reports regarding this species have been seen, there have been cases of poisoning caused by the consumption, in large quantities and by some mammals, of certain members of this genus. Dogs seem to be particularly susceptible[].

Botanical References

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Range

Eurasia - eastern European Russia, east to eastern Siberia and northern Mongolia

Habitat

On dry stony and debris mountain slopes, on rocks, in steppified pine forests[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Habit	Bulb
Height	0.30 m
Pollinators	Insects
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Allium stellerianum
Requires a sunny position, growing in the wild on dry, well-drained soils[].

Edible Uses

The plant is a rich source of vitamin C[]. No more information is given, and the report does not specifically say that the plant is edible, but this species is a wild relative of the cultivated onion, and Alliums in general have more or less edible bulbs, flowers and leaves[].

Medicinal

Although no specific mention of medicinal uses has been seen for this species, members of this genus are in general very healthy additions to the diet. They contain sulphur compounds (which give them their onion flavour) and when added to the diet on a regular basis they help reduce blood cholesterol levels, act as a tonic to the digestive system and also tonify the circulatory system[].

Agroforestry Uses:

Allium species usually grow well with most plants, especially roses, carrots, beet and chamomile, but they inhibit the growth of legumes[, , ]. They are, in general, bad companions for alfalfa - each species negatively affecting the other[].
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[].

Other Uses

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, the juice of most species in this genus (especially those with a strong onion or garlic smell) can be used as a moth repellent[].
The whole plant is said to repel insects and moles[].

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle - if you want to produce clumps more quickly then put three plants in each pot. Grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter and plant them out into their permanent positions in spring once they are growing vigorously and are large enough.
Division of the cluster, preferably when the plant is dormant.