Biological Diversity and Nutritional Importance of Allium Perennial Vegetable Species

Abstract

The Allium genus belongs to the family Amaryllidaceae. These species are native to the Northern Hemisphere and grow in various regions. Among Lithuania’s perennial Allium plant species, the most well known and cultivated are Allium schoenoprasum L., Allium angulosum L., Allium nutans L., Allium fistulosum L., and Allium ursinum L. These Allium species are important for practical insights and are discussed in this review to present their specific features. The changing climate impacts perennial plants’ agrobiological and nutritional properties, but not all kinds can adapt to new conditions, reducing species diversity. Perennial Allium species adapt well in local growing areas, but yields remain constant or may increase when the bulbs are transplanted under conditions similar to the plant’s native growing location. In addition, the susceptibility of garlic to pests and pathogens also poses a serious threat to genetic resources stored in uncontrolled field collections. Since ancient times, Allium species have played a significant role in the human diet, in traditional medicine for many ailments the treatment of, and in official medicine as a supplemental ingredient. This review analyzes the nutritional importance and consumption of the perennial Allium species, their biochemical composition, and their tolerance to environmental conditions.