Alaska Oniongrass
ExplorePlants
Alaska Oniongrass
melica subulata
Alaska Oniongrass is a fun, grassy plant that grows in the wild! It has long, slender leaves that sway in the breeze, making it a cool spot for little critters to hide.
Habitat: Alaska Oniongrass thrives in grasslands and open areas, often found in coastal regions.
Appearance
The Alaska Oniongrass is a slender, tall grass, typically green with a distinct reddish or purplish swollen base that resembles an onion. Its narrow flowering stalk holds small, greenish to purple spikelets. This grass stands out from others by its slightly bulbous stem base and overall height.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderPoalesFamilyPoaceaeGenusMelica
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
0/5 · No known danger
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Despite its name, the 'onion' part isn't a true bulb, but a thickened stem base!
It's like a natural compass; it often grows in large patches in open, sunny areas!
Its scientific name, 'subulata,' means 'awl-shaped,' referring to a sharp part of its tiny flowers.
This grass is a 'cool-season' plant, meaning it grows best when temperatures are milder!
Special abilities
Ability
Bulbous Base Power
Alaska Oniongrass has a unique swollen stem base that stores water and nutrients, helping it survive dry spells and harsh conditions.
Ability
Scent Signal
When crushed, Alaska Oniongrass releases an onion-like smell that might deter some plant-eating animals or signal its presence.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 30-100 cm
- Flower Size
- 0.5-1 cm
- Bloom Season
- Late spring to summer
- Edible
- Yes
- Toxicity
- None
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Pollination Method
- Wind
Ecological connections
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Traits
Grassland
Grassland habitats are terrestrial biomes dominated by grasses and herbaceous plants, supporting a variety of grazing animals.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Coastal
Coastal habitats are dynamic environments located along the interface between land and sea, influenced by tides, waves, and saltwater.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
Alaskan GrassOnion GrassWild Onion Grass
Collections
Safety
Danger
0/5 · No known danger
No special safety notes yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Alaska Oniongrass?
30-100 cm
How big are the flowers on Alaska Oniongrass?
0.5-1 cm
When does Alaska Oniongrass bloom?
Late spring to summer
Is Alaska Oniongrass edible?
Yes
Is Alaska Oniongrass toxic?
None
What is Alaska Oniongrass's lifecycle?
Perennial
How is Alaska Oniongrass pollinated?
Wind
Where is Alaska Oniongrass usually found?
Alaska Oniongrass thrives in grasslands and open areas, often found in coastal regions.
Snap Map
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