Onions (Allium cepa)

The likely native region of onions (Allium cepa) is **Central Asia**, specifically the area encompassing modern-day **Iran, Pakistan, and the mountainous regions of Central Asia**.

Here’s why:

* **Genetic Evidence:** Genetic studies of onion varieties point to Central Asia as the area with the greatest diversity in onion types, suggesting it’s been cultivated there the longest.
* **Historical Records:** Historical records also indicate that onions have been cultivated in this region for thousands of years.
* **Wild Relatives:** While the exact wild ancestor of *Allium cepa* is still debated, related wild Allium species are found in Central Asia.
* **Adaptation to Climate:** Onions are well-adapted to the climate of Central Asia, which has hot, dry summers and cold winters.

While onions spread early to the Middle East and the Mediterranean, Central Asia is considered their likely origin.