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For successful seedlings,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!

Canada garlic (Allium canadense), also known as Canada wild onion, wild garlic, meadow garlic, and meadow onion, is a herbaceous perennial native to eastern and central North America. It grows from an underground bulb covered in a brownish fibrous sheath. Its two to six leaves are linear and flat, emerging directly from the base. In summer, a leafless flowering stalk bears a dense umbel of star-shaped white or pinkish flowers. The entire plant releases a strong onion-like scent when crushed.

This species typically grows in prairies, open woodlands, slopes, ditches, and disturbed areas, often on well-drained but moist soils. It is hardy and tolerant of a range of conditions but prefers full sun to partial shade.

Medicinal and culinary uses
The bulbs and leaves of Canada garlic are edible and have a mild onion flavour. They can be eaten raw or cooked, and are used in salads, soups, and other dishes.

The bulb is antiseptic, diuretic, expectorant, and stimulant. It is also known for its carminative, digestive, and vermifuge properties. The leaves share some of these benefits.

Ecological roles
Canada garlic provides food and habitat for native wildlife. It supports pollinators such as mason bees, masked bees, sand bees, and carpenter bees. It also attracts certain butterflies and other nectar-feeding insects, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem.

Canada garlic seeds require cold stratification to ensure germination. See the cultivation notes below for more details.

Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.