Allium abramsii

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  Abrams' allium

Allium abramsii

Allium abramsii, commonly known as Abrams' onion, is a species of wild onion native to the western United States. It is a member of the genus Allium, which includes various species of onions, garlic, and chives.

Description

Allium abramsii is a perennial herb that grows from a bulb and produces a single flowering stalk. The plant typically reaches a height of 10 to 30 centimeters. The bulb is ovoid and covered with a brown, papery tunic.

The leaves of Allium abramsii are linear, flat, and grass-like, usually measuring 10 to 20 centimeters in length. They are typically shorter than the flowering stalk.

The inflorescence is an umbel, which is a cluster of flowers with stalks of nearly equal length that spread from a common point, resembling the ribs of an umbrella. The flowers are star-shaped, with six tepals that are white to pinkish in color. Each flower is about 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter.

Habitat and Distribution

Allium abramsii is found in the Sierra Nevada of California, particularly in the central part of the range. It grows in rocky, open areas, often in chaparral and woodland habitats. The plant is adapted to well-drained soils and is typically found at elevations between 1,500 and 2,500 meters.

Ecology

The flowers of Allium abramsii are pollinated by insects, including bees and butterflies. The plant is adapted to survive in its native habitat with minimal water, making it well-suited to the dry summers of the Sierra Nevada.

Conservation

Allium abramsii is not currently listed as a threatened or endangered species. However, like many native plants, it may be affected by habitat loss and environmental changes.

Related pages

• Allium
• Sierra Nevada
• Chaparral
• Woodland