Tree onion

Tree Onion

The tree onion (Allium _ proliferum), also known as the Egyptian walking onion, is a perennial plant that is a hybrid between the common onion (Allium cepa) and the Welsh onion (Allium fistulosum). It is known for its unique growth habit, where small bulbs, or bulbils, form at the top of the stalks, which can then fall over and take root, giving the plant its "walking" characteristic.

Tree onion bulbils

Description

Tree onions are hardy perennials that can survive in a variety of climates. They have hollow, cylindrical leaves similar to those of the scallion or green onion. The plant produces a cluster of small bulbs at the top of the stalk, which can be harvested and replanted. These bulbils are often used in cooking, much like regular onions.

Cultivation

Tree onions are easy to grow and require minimal maintenance. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant is propagated by planting the bulbils or by dividing the clumps of bulbs that form underground. Tree onions are often grown in kitchen gardens for their unique appearance and culinary uses.

Culinary Uses

The bulbils and young shoots of the tree onion can be used in a variety of dishes. They have a flavor similar to that of regular onions but are milder. Tree onions are popular in Asian cuisine, where they are used in dishes such as pajeon (Korean green onion pancake) and kimchi.

Haemulpajeon, a Korean pancake made with green onions

Scallion kimchi

Related Species

Tree onions are closely related to several other species in the Allium genus, including:

• Allium cepa (common onion)
• Allium fistulosum (Welsh onion)
• Allium schoenoprasum (chives)

Related Pages

• Onion
• Scallion
• Chives
• Garlic

External Links

• How to Grow Onions - Gardener's World

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