Allium fistulosum - Welsh onion

Allium fistulosum, generally known as Welsh onion, bunching onion, long green onion or spring onions, is a persistent herbaceous plant from the family of the Amaryllidaceae. The species originally comes from Asia and is now widespread worldwide in moderate and subtropical regions, where it is cultivated as a vegetable and spice plant.

Morphology and appearance

Allium fistulosum is characterized by a characteristic appearance. The plant does not form pronounced onions, like many other representatives of the genus Allium, but grows in the form of dense tufts of long, hollow, tubular leaves. These leaves can reach a length of up to 50 centimeters and have a light green to dark green color.

The plant develops an upright, leafless flower stem that reaches heights of up to 80 centimeters. At the top there is a spherical inflorescence, which consists of numerous small, star-shaped, white to greenish and white flowers. The heyday ranges from June to August. The flowers are hermaphrodite and are pollinated by insects such as bees and flies.

The root system of Allium fistulosum is fibrous and flat, which enables the plant efficient water and nutrient absorption. Due to their ability to form daughter plants through vegetative propagation, it often spreads horny.

Distribution and habitat

Allium fistulosum has probably been domesticated in Central Asia and has already been used as a crop in ancient times. The species can be adapted to a variety of floors and climate zones and grows in both humus -rich and in sandy or loamy soils. It prefers sunny to partially shaded locations and a regular water supply.

In moderate regions, the plant is often considered hardy and can also survive in the field in frost -free periods. It is cultivated all year round in subtropical and tropical regions.

Use and meaning

Allium fistulosum is an important crop in global agriculture, especially in Asia, where it has a permanent place in both traditional and modern cuisine. The leaves and stems are freshly harvested and used as an ingredient in soups, salads and pan dishes. The mild but characteristic onion aroma makes it a popular alternative to the ordinary kitchen onion (Allium cepa).

In addition to their culinary value, Allium fistulosum also has medical importance. The plant contains numerous bioactive compounds such as sulfur compounds, flavonoids and saponins that have antioxidant, anti -inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat colds, gastrointestinal complaints and to strengthen the immune system.

Ecological properties

Allium fistulosum offers food and habitat for pollinators and other insects. The flowers attract numerous bees and butterflies through their nectar, which contributes to the promotion of biodiversity. In addition, it is used as natural pest protection in mixed cultures because its sulfur compounds keep pests such as aphids and carrot flies away.

The plant is not only a valuable part of human nutrition, but also an important factor in sustainable agricultural systems that rely on diversity and natural pest control.