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Nebrodi onion facts for kids

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Nebrodi onion
Allium nebrodense.jpg
Allium nebrodense
Scientific classification
Synonyms
  • Allium flavum subsp. nebrodense (Guss.) Nyman
  • Allium flavum var. nebrodense (Guss.) Regel

Allium nebrodense is a special kind of wild onion that grows only in Italy. It is quite rare and can only be found on the island of Sicily, which is in southern Italy.

What Makes It Special?

Allium nebrodense is unusual compared to other plants in the onion family. Most onion plants have a straight stem, called a scape, that stands upright. But the scape of the Nebrodi onion is different! It starts growing sideways near the ground and then curves upwards. Think of it like a gentle curve instead of a straight line.

Its Unique Flowers

The flowers of this plant are also very interesting. They are bright yellow. Before the flowers open, they are protected by special leaf-like parts called spathes. For the Nebrodi onion, these spathes are very noticeable. They narrow down into two long, red, claw-like shapes that stick out on either side of the flower cluster. These "claws" are much longer than the group of flowers itself, making them quite unique! The flowers grow in a rounded cluster called an umbel, which looks a bit like an upside-down umbrella.

Where It Lives

This rare wild onion only grows in Sicily, an island known for its beautiful landscapes and unique plants. Its specific habitat helps it survive, but also means it's found in very few places.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Allium nebrodense para niños

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