Uncovering the Hidden Depths of I’itoi: Master the Art of Layered Gardening

Residents who have embraced the Sonoran Desert over the past decade are discovering resilient plants that thrive in the harsh summer conditions. Among these is the I’itoi onion, a native plant with a rich cultural background.

Allan J. McIntyre explains that “I’itoi” (pronounced EE-toy) refers to “the man in the maze,” a revered figure in Tohono O’odham mythology. This creator deity is said to reside on Boboquivari Peak, following an epic battle against Yellow Buzzard and Coyote.

Growing I’itoi onions is straightforward. Many local gardeners share these multiplier onions, much like the way excess zucchini is often exchanged among friends. They are also available at farmers markets and online.

These small bulbs may seem modest, but they are planted one inch deep and four inches apart in well-prepared garden soil with ample sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. They can be cultivated during Arizona’s monsoon season, typically from August through November.

Green shoots from the I’itoi onion can be used as chives and will readily regrow. Once the leaves turn brown, the bulbs are ready for harvesting. They grow in clusters, making them easy to separate during harvest. If the plants have bolted and produced white flowers, seeds can also be collected from these blooms.

These onions serve well as companion plants, enhancing the growth and flavor of beets, brassicas, strawberries, and tomatoes. After harvesting, clean the bulbs by hand without using water, and allow them to dry for curing before culinary use. They can be utilized similarly to shallots, offering a unique yet appealing taste profile.

For a deeper understanding of Tohono O’odham legends, McIntyre’s book, *The Tohono O’odham and Pimería Alta*, explores this rich history. Pimería Alta refers to a historical Spanish territory spanning southern Arizona and northern Sonora, Mexico.

Gardening enthusiasts may one day find themselves making a pilgrimage to Boboquivari Peak, where more secrets of creation and planting await discovery. Currently, I’itoi onions are cultivated at the Walp Demonstration Garden at the Maricopa Agricultural Center in the area.

Trudy Fuller, a Pinal County Master Gardener, highlights the importance of these cultural and agricultural connections in the region.