i'itoi and the other multiplier onions

The multiplier onion, also known as potato onion, (Allium cepa var. aggregatum) is similar to the shallot, although multiplier onions produce larger bulbs and have a stronger flavor than shallots. Remarkably easy to grow, they keep better than almost any other variety of onion, and they are ideal for the home gardener with restricted space. They were very popular in the past but, like many old varieties, these lovely onions have been passed over in favor of types more suitable for mechanical harvesting and mass marketing.

The origin of shallots and potato onions is uncertain. The earliest clear records of their use come from 12th century France.Potato onions were once a popular crop in North America, but fell out of favor in the early twentieth century, along with many other staples of the home garden. One possible reason for this is the additional labor involved in harvesting potato onions. Because they grow in a nest that must be divided, they are not as suitable for mechanical harvest as individual standard onions. Since most people don’t grow their own food anymore, the average consumer is left to what is best for the market. But for the gardener, these are more convenient and easy to grow, especially in our climate.

There are many selections available, but in our region, the Tohono O’odham people have given us their own multiplier onion. The I’itoi onion (pronounced “EE-toy”) has a long history in the Sonoran Desert. According to legend, I’itoi, the creator of the O’odham people, called his people together and presented them with onions to plant and share.

Multiplier onions do not produce seeds but are grown from bulbs planted in the ground. The planted bulb multiplies and is propagated by division. These easy-to-grow onions rarely (if ever) send up flower stalks. Multiplier onions tolerate and even thrive in the our region’s difficult growing conditions. 

Plant from divisions or bulbs in the fall in Arizona. If you are in a colder region, high up in the mountains, you might wait until spring. Each bulb will multiply, as the name implies, almost indefinitely.

In summer plants might go dormant, but they don’t always do so. Monsoon usually greens them up again if they go brown in June. Regular water with good drainage and improved garden soil will keep plants green most of the year.

Feed with a balanced organic fertilizer. Grow in full to part sun.

Harvest throughout the year as needed. Use the greens like chives.