Naples garlic, flowering garlic, daffodil garlic, onion garlic, Neapolitan garlic
Allium neapolitanum
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Bulbs, leaves, and flowers are edible, possessing a mild garlic flavor. Flowers attract pollinators. Useful in cottage gardens and naturalized areas. Can be used as a ground cover or grown in containers. May have pest-repelling properties, though evidence is limited.
Permapeople description
Allium neapolitanum is a bulbous herbaceous perennial plant, native to the Mediterranean region. It is valued for its clusters of star-shaped, white flowers that bloom in spring.
Botanical description
Allium neapolitanum is a bulbous perennial plant in the Amaryllidaceae family. It grows from an underground bulb, producing several linear, basal leaves. The plant reaches a height of 12-20 inches. It features a terminal umbel of star-shaped, white flowers, usually 10-30 flowers per cluster, each about 0.8 inches across. The flowers are hermaphroditic. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It blooms in spring. The fruit is a capsule containing black seeds. It spreads both by bulb offsets and by seeds.
Companion planting
Generally compatible with many plants. Its presence may deter certain pests. Avoid planting near legumes like beans and peas, as alliums can sometimes inhibit their growth. Companion planting with roses is commonly practiced due to its supposed ability to deter aphids.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily achieved through bulb division and seed sowing. Bulbs can be divided in the fall and replanted. Seeds should be sown in the fall or spring. Self-seeding can be prolific in suitable conditions.
History and traditions
Native to the Mediterranean region, Allium neapolitanum has been cultivated for ornamental and culinary purposes for centuries. It has naturalized in many parts of the world, including North and South America, Australia, and parts of Asia. Traditionally, garlic species were used for their medicinal properties, although Allium neapolitanum's usage is less documented than that of Allium sativum.
Usage calendar
Flowering: Spring (March-May). Planting: Fall (bulbs), Spring (seeds). Bulb division: Fall. Harvesting (leaves/flowers): Spring.