Welsh Onion

Despite its name, the Welsh Onion is actually native to China but has been a staple of UK vegetable and herb gardens for centuries. It is a perennial bunching onion that does not form a large bulb but instead produces thick, succulent, hollow stems similar to a very large spring onion. It is incredibly hardy and can be harvested year-round in many parts of the UK, providing a constant supply of onion-flavoured greens. The leaves and stems can be used raw in salads or cooked in stir-fries and soups. In summer, it produces attractive, spherical white flower heads that are very popular with bees. It grows in dense clumps and is easily propagated by division in spring or autumn. It is an ideal "low-maintenance" herb, requiring little more than a sunny spot and a decent garden soil. Because it stays green through most winters, it is a valuable crop for the "hungry gap" when other fresh herbs may be scarce.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, fertile soil.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.