Yellow Onion

Scientific Name: Allium cepa
Common Name: Yellow Onion
Plant Family: Amaryllidaceae

Etymology: “Allium” is the genus and also means “garlic” and “Cepa” simply means “onion” in Latin.

Parts Used

The bulb (root of the stalk). 

Ancient Uses

Primarily used as a food in its believed country of origin (western Asia); however through plant genealogy and evolution, it has been spread all over the world. North American indigenous peoples, Egyptians, and the Romans all used Allium cepa for its medicinal qualities. Europeans during the Middle Ages believed the sulfur-like smell would ward off evil spirits.

Contemporary Uses

Allium cepa is still commonly used in foods worldwide and is one of the most popular vegetables. 

Medicinal Properties

Rich in thiamine, riboflavin, antioxidants, and vitamin C. Has been shown to reduce high blood pressure, blood sugar, and hypertension. 

Identification

Allium cepa is identified by its long stalky shoot that, when in bloom, will have a spherical growth of green to white flowers. If pulled out of the ground the root of the plant will have several layers of outer skin, or tunic, of an ochre color. 

But How Do I Grow It?

If planting from seed, it's recommended that you start them indoors as early as January. If planting bulbs, or nursery onions plant in early-mid spring in a warm area where the ground is malleable. Onions prefer full sun with good drainage in the soil. They can grow up to three feet in height and be planted 2-3 inches apart.