The Nodding Onion is a member of the Lily family and like other plants in that group, grows from bulbs. It is one of over 500 species of the genus Allium, which means garlic in Latin.

It is found across most of North America flowering in clusters of pink or white flowers in June through August, depending on its location. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate drought, although it doesn't grow well in the shade. It does very well when exposed to maritime conditions but also enjoys woodlands, prairies and rocky outcrops.