Shallot
Allium cepa
- Common Onion
- Garden Onion
- Onion
- Spring Onion
- cultivated onion
About this plant
Allium cepa, commonly known as Shallot, is a perennial vegetable that thrives in full sun with medium water requirements. It grows to a height of 0.3–0.6 meters and blooms with white flowers in June and July. It prefers loamy, sandy, or chalky soil and is suitable for USDA zones 3–9. This plant is not fragrant, but it does attract pollinators and is not toxic or evergreen.
Light
Full sun
Watering
Medium water
Soil
Loamy, Sandy, Chalky
Height
0.56–0.9 m
Spread
0.1–0.2 m
Zones
3–9
Flower colors
Growing Tips
Shallots are best grown in well-drained soil in a location that receives full sun. Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry periods. They can be harvested when the foliage begins to yellow and fall over.
Culinary Uses
Shallots are a staple in many cuisines, prized for their milder, sweeter flavor compared to onions. They can be used raw in salads, roasted, or sautéed in various dishes.
