Description & origin
The onion is a biennial herbaceous plant primarily grown for its edible bulbs. It is one of the oldest and most popular plants in global cuisine. In Portugal, it is widely used in soups, stews, and salads.
Size
Can reach up to 60 cm in height.
Foliage
Deciduous foliage that dries after bulb harvest.
Flowering
This species does not produce flowers in domestic cultivation.
Detailed care
Light
Soil
Watering
Temperature
Fertilising
Repotting
Pruning
Propagation
Common problems
Bulb rot
Caused by excess moisture in the soil.
Downy mildew
Fungal disease affecting leaves in humid conditions.
Onion fly
Insect that lays eggs on bulbs, causing damage.
Uses & curiosities
In the garden
- Home vegetable garden
- Herb beds
- Mediterranean gardens
Other uses
Widely used in cooking as a seasoning and main ingredient.
Did you know…
Onions are known to cause tears when cut due to the release of sulfur compounds.