What Are Echalion and Banana Shallots? Complete UK Growing Guide

Echalion shallots, often called banana shallots, are elongated members of the onion family with a sweet, delicate flavour, and they’re a fantastic vegetable to grow in a UK garden or allotment.

If you’ve ever visited the supermarket and spotted those long, narrow shallots sitting alongside ordinary onions, you might have wondered exactly what they are.

They look a little like miniature elongated onions, but they’re usually sold as banana shallots, long shallots or echalion shallots.

And there’s a good reason why they’re becoming increasingly popular.

Not only do they have a lovely flavour, but their long shape makes them particularly useful for chopping, slicing, roasting and adding to sauces.

They’re also worth growing yourself.

Some banana shallot varieties can be started from seed, while others are grown from sets, just like traditional shallots.

And depending on the variety, you can harvest either individual elongated bulbs or clusters of several shallots from one planted set.

Here at Gardening with Ben, I enjoy growing shallots, onions and garlic on the allotment.

I particularly like crops that can be planted during autumn or started early in the year, because they help keep the allotment productive across the seasons.

And if you’re already growing ordinary shallots, I think long banana shallots are well worth considering.

They bring a different shape, attractive copper-coloured skins and another interesting vegetable to experiment with.

However, one thing that’s important to understand is that not every banana shallot grows in exactly the same way.

Some varieties multiply from sets, while other varieties are grown from seed and usually produce one bulb per seedling.

That’s why choosing the right variety makes a difference.

In this complete UK guide, I’ll explain what echalion shallots are, how they compare with traditional shallots and onions, and which varieties are worth growing.

We’ll also look at when to sow banana shallot seeds, how to plant long shallot sets, the correct spacing, watering, feeding, harvesting and storage.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced allotment gardener, let’s take a closer look at these fascinating vegetables.

What Are Echalion Shallots?

Echalion is a name commonly used for elongated shallot-type alliums, often referred to as banana shallots.

They’re recognised by their long, narrow or torpedo-like shape.

Their outer skins are typically copper, golden-brown or pinkish-brown, depending on the variety.

Inside, the flesh is usually pale and can have a pinkish or purplish tinge.

Why Are They Called Echalion Shallots?

The word is used commercially for certain elongated shallot-type vegetables.

However, naming can be confusing.

You may see similar-looking bulbs described as:

• Echalion shallots.
• Banana shallots.
• Long shallots.
• Torpedo shallots.
• French long shallots.

These names can overlap, and suppliers don’t always use them in exactly the same way.

The most useful thing for gardeners is checking the actual variety name and whether it’s grown from seeds or sets.

Are Echalion Shallots Actually Shallots?

They’re closely related to onions and other shallots.

Different elongated varieties may belong to different groups within the species Allium cepa.

For example, some traditional banana shallots are multiplying shallots, while some seed-grown echalion types are botanically classified closer to ordinary bulb onions.

This doesn’t make the supermarket name necessarily wrong.

It simply means that banana shallots describe a type of vegetable rather than one single variety with identical growing characteristics.

Why Are They Called Banana Shallots?

The name comes from their shape.

Ordinary shallots are often rounded or teardrop-shaped.

Banana shallots are considerably more elongated.

Some look almost like a small, stretched onion.

How Big Are Banana Shallots?

The size depends on the variety and growing conditions.

Many are larger and longer than traditional small round shallots.

However, they’re not necessarily as bulky as ordinary large cooking onions.

What Colour Are They?

Common colours include:

• Copper-brown.
• Golden-brown.
• Pinkish-brown.
• Reddish-purple.

The internal flesh is usually pale.

Do They Have Layers Like Onions?

Yes.

When you cut through a banana shallot, you’ll find edible layers similar to those inside an onion.

Banana Shallots vs Ordinary Shallots

Although they’re closely related, the two types can look quite different.

Feature	Banana or echalion shallots	Traditional round shallots
Shape	Long, oval or torpedo-shaped	Round, oval or teardrop-shaped
Size	Often relatively large	Commonly smaller
Skin	Usually copper or pinkish-brown	Golden, red, copper or grey
Flavour	Generally mild, sweet and aromatic	Generally delicate, sweet and onion-like
Growing from seed	Common for some varieties	Available for selected varieties
Growing from sets	Available for multiplying varieties	Very common
Bulb formation	Depends on variety and propagation	Sets commonly produce clusters
Kitchen use	Slicing, sauces, roasting and frying	Sauces, dressings, roasting and general cooking

Which Is Better?

Neither is automatically better.

Long shallots are useful when you want larger, easy-to-slice bulbs.

Traditional shallots are excellent when you want smaller bulbs or enjoy growing multiplying varieties.

Are They Both Suitable for UK Gardens?

Yes.

Choose varieties suited to British growing conditions and follow their planting instructions.

Are Banana Shallots the Same as Onions?

Not exactly, although the botanical relationship is very close.

Banana shallots are members of the onion family and are commonly classified within Allium cepa.

Some elongated varieties are more onion-like in their growing habits, while others behave like traditional multiplying shallots.

Do Banana Shallots Have a Strong Onion Flavour?

They typically have a milder, slightly sweeter flavour than many standard cooking onions.

However, flavour varies with the variety and growing conditions.

Can You Use Them Instead of Onions?

Yes.

Banana shallots can replace onions in many recipes, especially when you want a gentler onion flavour.

Can You Use Onions Instead of Banana Shallots?

Yes.

Choose a mild onion and adjust the amount.

The result may be slightly different, but it’s usually a practical substitution.

What Do Echalion Shallots Taste Like?

One of the main reasons people enjoy these shallots is their flavour.

They’re often described as:

• Mild.
• Sweet.
• Delicate.
• Aromatic.
• Slightly onion-like.
• Less overpowering than many ordinary onions.

What Do They Taste Like Raw?

Raw banana shallots can have a crisp texture and mild onion flavour.

Finely chopped, they’re excellent in dressings.

What Happens When They’re Cooked?

They soften and become sweeter.

Their elongated shape makes them particularly useful for slicing into even pieces.

Are They Good for Roasting?

Yes.

Halved or quartered banana shallots can be roasted until tender and sweet.

Are They Good in Soups?

Absolutely.

They’re useful in soups, casseroles and savoury sauces.

Can You Make Crispy Shallots?

Yes.

Their long shape makes them convenient for thin slicing.

Cook carefully, because thin slices can turn from golden to burnt quickly.

Best Banana Shallot Varieties to Grow in the UK

There are several interesting long shallot varieties worth considering.

The important thing is checking how each one should be propagated.

1. Shallot ‘Longor’

‘Longor’ is a particularly good option if you want to grow elongated shallots from sets.

It’s a traditional French banana-type shallot.

The bulbs have attractive coppery to purple-brown skins and pale pinkish flesh.

‘Longor’ is valued for its flavour and storage qualities.

Why grow it?

• Distinctive elongated bulbs.
• Traditional multiplying growth habit.
• Suitable for growing from sets.
• Good flavour.
• Useful storage qualities.

Under suitable conditions, one ‘Longor’ set can produce several new bulbs.

This makes it particularly interesting for gardeners who enjoy growing multiplying shallots.

2. Shallot ‘Zebrune’

‘Zebrune’ is a heritage banana-type shallot widely sold as seed.

Its elongated bulbs have attractive coppery-brown skins with pink tones.

One of its advantages is that it can be grown from seed, making it an interesting option for gardeners who enjoy starting vegetables in trays.

Why grow it?

• Attractive elongated bulbs.
• Suitable for seed growing.
• Useful culinary flavour.
• Good resistance to bolting.
• A different growing experience from traditional multiplying sets.

Unlike set-grown multiplying shallots, each seed-raised ‘Zebrune’ plant normally produces one mature bulb.

3. Shallot ‘Jermor’

‘Jermor’ is another elongated French shallot.

Its bulbs have a long, elegant shape and attractive colouring.

It’s a good variety to investigate if you enjoy the traditional banana shallot appearance.

Why grow it?

• Long, tapered bulbs.
• Good culinary qualities.
• Suitable for UK growing conditions.
• An attractive alternative to rounded shallots.

Check the supplier’s recommended growing method and planting season.

4. Shallot ‘Banana’

You may also see varieties marketed simply as ‘Banana’.

The RHS describes shallot ‘Banana’ as a larger elongated shallot with light brown skin.

It’s grown in sunny, well-drained conditions.

However, because commercial naming can vary, always check the exact planting instructions.

Which Would I Recommend?

For gardeners wanting a traditional multiplying crop, I’d consider ‘Longor’ sets.

For gardeners who enjoy starting vegetables from seed, ‘Zebrune’ is an excellent variety to investigate.

You could even grow both and compare how they perform on your allotment.

Can You Grow Banana Shallots from Seed?

Yes.

Some elongated shallot varieties are specifically sold as seeds.

‘Zebrune’ is one of the best-known examples.

However, don’t assume every named banana shallot is best grown from seed.

What Is the Advantage of Growing from Seed?

Seeds can be inexpensive.

They also allow you to grow a larger number of plants from one packet.

Seed-raised plants are generally less likely to bolt than plants grown from sets.

What Is the Disadvantage?

You need to care for seedlings during their early stages.

That usually means providing suitable compost, light, warmth and watering.

Do Seed-Grown Banana Shallots Multiply?

Usually, each individual seed-raised plant produces one bulb.

If several seedlings are grown together in one module, you’ll harvest a group of bulbs, but these have developed from separate seedlings rather than one set dividing into a cluster.

This is an important difference from traditional multiplying shallots.

When to Sow Banana Shallot Seeds in the UK

For varieties such as ‘Zebrune’, you can start seeds indoors in late winter or sow outdoors during spring.

January

Some gardeners with suitable indoor growing equipment start seeds early.

However, sufficient light is important.

February

February is a useful month for starting banana shallot seeds under cover.

March

March is another good month for indoor sowing.

Outdoor sowing may be possible later in the month if conditions are suitable.

April

April is a common month for direct outdoor sowing once the soil is warming.

Why Start Seeds Early?

Shallots begin forming bulbs as daylight length increases.

Establishing healthy leaves before bulb development begins can help produce better results.

Does Every Variety Have the Same Sowing Time?

No.

Check the packet for the exact variety you’re growing.

How to Grow Banana Shallots from Seed – Step-by-Step

If you’ve bought a packet of ‘Zebrune’ or another seed-grown long shallot, this is a practical way to get started.

Step 1: Choose Quality Seeds

Buy named shallot seeds from a reputable supplier.

Check the sowing dates and packet instructions.

Step 2: Prepare Your Seed Trays

Fill clean modular trays or small pots with suitable peat-free seed compost.

Step 3: Sow the Seeds

You can sow several seeds per module.

A useful starting point is five or six seeds, thinning to three or four healthy seedlings as they develop.

Step 4: Cover Lightly

Cover at the depth recommended on the seed packet.

Step 5: Water Gently

Moisten the compost without saturating it.

Step 6: Keep Somewhere Bright

Place the trays in a suitably bright location.

Insufficient light can produce weak, stretched seedlings.

Step 7: Maintain Appropriate Temperatures

Follow the seed supplier’s germination guidance.

Avoid overheating seedlings once they’ve emerged.

Step 8: Thin if Necessary

If germination is dense, thin the seedlings to a manageable group.

Step 9: Harden Off

Before planting outside, gradually acclimatise the plants to outdoor conditions.

Step 10: Prepare the Vegetable Bed

Choose a sunny, well-drained growing area.

Step 11: Transplant the Seedlings

Plant multi-sown modules as groups without pulling individual seedlings apart.

Step 12: Allow Adequate Spacing

Position groups approximately 15–20 cm apart, with around 25–30 cm between rows.

For individually grown plants, follow the variety’s recommended spacing.

Step 13: Water In

Water after transplanting to help settle the soil around the roots.

Step 14: Keep Weeds Under Control

Young shallots don’t compete well with established weeds.

Step 15: Monitor Their Growth

As spring progresses, the leaves should become stronger and the developing bulbs will eventually begin swelling.

Gardening with Ben tip: If you’re growing banana shallots from seed, try a few modules with three or four seedlings together and compare them with individual plants. It’s a useful experiment to see how spacing affects bulb size.

Can You Grow Banana Shallots from Sets?

Yes, provided you choose a variety sold for planting as sets.

‘Longor’ is a particularly good example.

What Is a Shallot Set?

A set is a small bulb intended for planting.

It isn’t a botanical seed.

What Happens When You Plant a ‘Longor’ Set?

A traditional multiplying ‘Longor’ set can develop into several elongated shallot bulbs.

Is That Different from ‘Zebrune’?

Yes.

‘Zebrune’ is commonly grown from seed, with one bulb developing per seedling.

Should You Plant Supermarket Banana Shallots?

Although some supermarket bulbs might grow, I recommend buying planting material from a reputable gardening supplier.

Supermarket shallots are intended for eating, and their variety and plant-health history may not be clear.

When to Plant Banana Shallot Sets in the UK

The correct planting time depends on the variety.

Some long shallot sets are suitable for autumn planting, while others can be planted during late winter or spring.

September

Certain varieties may be suitable for planting from September.

October

October can be a good month for planting varieties specifically recommended for autumn.

November

Some suitable varieties can continue being planted if soil conditions allow.

February

Late winter can be a good planting period for suitable sets.

March and April

These are popular months for many spring planting varieties.

Can You Plant Every Banana Shallot in Autumn?

No.

Check the variety and supplier instructions.

This is particularly important if you have heavy clay soil that becomes waterlogged in winter.

How to Plant Long Shallot Sets – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Choose Healthy Sets

Look for firm bulbs without mould, decay or serious damage.

Step 2: Select a Sunny Position

Choose a bed receiving plenty of sunlight.

Step 3: Prepare the Soil

Use fertile, well-drained soil.

Step 4: Remove Persistent Weeds

Clear weeds before planting.

Step 5: Mark Your Rows

Allow around 25–30 cm between rows.

Step 6: Space the Sets

Position each traditional shallot set approximately 15–20 cm apart.

Step 7: Identify the Pointed End

The pointed end goes upwards.

Step 8: Plant Shallowly

Place the set so its pointed tip remains just visible at the surface.

Step 9: Firm Gently

Press the soil around the set without excessive compaction.

Step 10: Water In

Water if needed, taking care not to saturate already wet soil.

Step 11: Label the Variety

Keep a record of the variety and planting date.

Step 12: Protect if Necessary

Birds sometimes pull newly planted shallot sets from the soil.

Appropriate temporary fleece or securely fitted protection can help.

How Far Apart Should Banana Shallots Be Planted?

Spacing depends on whether you’re growing from sets or seed.

Banana Shallot Sets

For traditional multiplying varieties:

• Approximately 15–20 cm between sets.
• Approximately 25–30 cm between rows.

This gives the plants space to produce their clusters.

Seed-Grown Shallots

If you’re growing individual plants, follow the recommended spacing for your variety.

For many seed-grown shallots, approximately 10 cm between individual plants is a useful guide when growing for medium-sized bulbs.

Multi-Sown Modules

Groups of three or four seedlings can be planted approximately 15–20 cm apart.

What Happens If You Plant Too Closely?

Individual bulbs may remain smaller because of competition for space, moisture, nutrients and light.

Can Closer Planting Be Useful?

Sometimes.

You may produce more bulbs overall, but individual bulbs are often smaller.

What Is the Best Soil for Banana Shallots?

Banana shallots generally prefer the same conditions as ordinary shallots.

Choose fertile, well-drained soil in full sun.

Do They Grow in Clay Soil?

Yes, provided drainage is adequate.

Heavy soil that remains waterlogged is unsuitable, especially for autumn planting.

Can You Add Homemade Compost?

Yes.

Mature garden compost can improve soil structure and moisture retention.

Should You Use Fresh Manure?

Avoid adding fresh manure immediately before planting.

Use properly well-rotted material where necessary.

Does Soil pH Matter?

Shallots generally perform well in soil that isn’t strongly acidic.

If you’re repeatedly struggling with poor growth, a soil test can help identify whether pH or nutrition needs attention.

Can You Grow Them in a No-Dig Bed?

Yes.

A well-managed no-dig bed with suitable mature compost and good drainage can produce excellent shallots.

Growing Banana Shallots in Raised Beds

Raised beds are particularly useful when you want to keep different shallot varieties separate.

Why Use Raised Beds?

They allow you to organise planting rows, manage weeds and improve the growing medium.

What Depth Should You Use?

Approximately 20–30 cm of suitable soil over open ground is a useful starting point, provided the soil beneath is also suitable.

Can You Grow Long Shallots in a Polytunnel?

It’s possible, but full-season growing under cover isn’t generally necessary.

An unheated polytunnel may be useful for raising seedlings early, but good ventilation, moisture management and appropriate growing conditions remain important.

Will Raised Beds Need More Water?

Potentially.

Raised beds can dry out more quickly during warm weather, so check soil moisture regularly.

Growing Banana Shallots in Pots

If you’ve only got a patio or small garden, you can still grow banana shallots.

What Pot Size Is Best?

Use a container at least around 30 cm deep and wide for a small planting.

Larger containers are better when growing multiple sets or groups of seedlings.

What Compost Should You Use?

A quality peat-free soil-based potting compost is suitable.

Does the Container Need Drainage Holes?

Yes.

Reliable drainage is essential.

Can You Grow ‘Zebrune’ in Pots?

Yes.

Seed-raised ‘Zebrune’ plants can be grown in suitable large containers.

How Often Should You Water?

Water when the growing medium begins drying, particularly during active growth.

Avoid leaving the container saturated.

How to Feed Banana Shallots

Like other shallots, banana types benefit from fertile soil and balanced nutrition.

Should You Feed at Planting Time?

If the soil is already fertile and has been improved with mature compost, additional feeding may not be necessary.

Can You Use Chicken Manure Pellets?

Yes, when used according to the instructions.

However, avoid overapplication.

Can You Use Onion and Garlic Feed?

A suitable fertiliser formulated for allium crops can be used if additional nutrients are needed.

When Is Feeding Most Important?

Healthy foliage during spring helps support bulb development.

Autumn-planted shallots growing in poor soil may benefit from appropriate feeding during late winter.

What About Container-Grown Shallots?

Plants in pots may benefit from occasional appropriate liquid feeding during the growing season.

Should You Feed Close to Harvest?

Avoid unnecessary heavy feeding as bulbs approach maturity.

How Often Should You Water Banana Shallots?

Watering requirements depend on soil, weather and growing stage.

Autumn

Natural rainfall is often sufficient.

Winter

Avoid unnecessary watering where the soil is already wet.

Spring

Check moisture as leaf growth becomes more vigorous.

Early Summer

Water during prolonged dry weather while bulbs are developing.

Before Harvest

Reduce watering as the bulbs mature and the foliage begins naturally dying back.

Can Too Much Water Cause Rot?

Yes.

Prolonged waterlogging can damage roots and bulbs.

Can Too Little Water Affect Bulb Size?

Yes.

Severe drought during active growth can limit development.

When Are Banana Shallots Ready to Harvest in the UK?

Many banana shallot crops are ready during mid- to late summer.

July and August are common harvesting months.

However, some varieties may mature earlier or later depending on planting time and conditions.

What Are the Signs They’re Ready?

Look for:

• Leaves beginning to turn yellow.
• Foliage falling or flopping over.
• Reduced new growth.
• Mature bulbs beneath the soil.
• Drying outer skins.

Should Every Leaf Be Completely Brown?

Not necessarily.

You can inspect a sample bulb when the foliage is naturally declining.

Is Harvesting Different for ‘Longor’ and ‘Zebrune’?

There can be a difference.

Traditional set-grown ‘Longor’ may be harvested as a cluster of elongated shallots.

Seed-grown ‘Zebrune’ generally produces individual bulbs.

Do You Have to Harvest on a Dry Day?

Dry weather is helpful, but crop maturity matters more than waiting indefinitely for perfect conditions.

How to Harvest Echalion and Banana Shallots

Step 1: Check the Foliage

Look for the normal signs of maturity.

Step 2: Prepare a Garden Fork

Use a hand fork or garden fork.

Step 3: Loosen the Soil

Carefully work around the developing bulbs.

Step 4: Lift Gently

Avoid pulling hard on the leaves.

Step 5: Inspect the Bulbs

Check for bruising, damage and disease.

Step 6: Separate Clusters if Necessary

Traditional multiplying varieties may form clusters that can be divided into individual bulbs.

Step 7: Remove Loose Soil

Brush off loose dirt gently.

Step 8: Begin Drying

Place the bulbs in a sheltered, well-ventilated location.

How to Dry and Store Banana Shallots

Properly cured banana shallots can be stored for many months, depending on the variety.

Step 1: Choose Somewhere Dry

Use a ventilated shed, sheltered outdoor drying area or suitable greenhouse.

Step 2: Spread in a Single Layer

Arrange shallots on trays or wire racks.

Step 3: Provide Good Airflow

Don’t pile the bulbs into deep heaps.

Step 4: Allow Thorough Drying

Approximately two weeks is a useful starting point under suitable conditions, although curing can take longer in damp weather.

Step 5: Check the Skins

They should become dry and papery.

Step 6: Check the Necks

The necks should be dry rather than moist.

Step 7: Remove Damaged Bulbs

Store only sound, healthy bulbs.

Step 8: Choose Breathable Storage

Mesh bags, shallow trays or ventilated baskets work well.

Step 9: Store Somewhere Cool and Dry

Avoid excessive humidity and poor ventilation.

Step 10: Check Regularly

Remove bulbs that become soft, mouldy or rotten.

How Long Do Banana Shallots Store?

Healthy, properly cured shallots often store for six to eight months, and some varieties may keep longer.

However, storage life depends on variety, curing quality and conditions.

Can You Save Banana Shallots for Planting Next Year?

Sometimes, yes.

However, the answer depends on the type you’re growing.

Saving ‘Longor’

Healthy bulbs from suitable traditional multiplying varieties can potentially be saved as planting sets.

Choose mature, undamaged bulbs.

Dry and store them properly.

Saving ‘Zebrune’

Seed-raised ‘Zebrune’ is generally grown from purchased seed.

Saving bulbs for replanting doesn’t necessarily reproduce the expected commercial seed-growing system or result.

For predictable growing results, use fresh named seed.

Should You Save Shallots from Diseased Plants?

No.

Avoid saving planting material from crops showing suspected white rot or other serious disease symptoms.

Common Problems When Growing Banana Shallots

1. Shallots Not Sprouting

Cold soil, poor planting material, moisture problems or planting at an unsuitable time may delay growth.

2. Shallots Turning Yellow Too Early

Possible causes include waterlogging, drought, nutrient problems or disease.

3. Small Bulbs

Overcrowding, insufficient sunlight, poor nutrition and dry soil can reduce bulb size.

4. Bolting

Stress, particularly certain cold conditions, can trigger flower production.

Remove flower stems promptly if you’re growing for bulbs, and use affected bulbs earlier because they may store less well.

5. Onion White Rot

This serious fungal disease can infect shallots and other alliums.

It causes root and bulb decay and can persist in soil for many years.

6. Allium Leaf Miner

This pest can damage leaves and internal plant tissues.

Fine insect-proof mesh may help if installed before the adult flies begin laying eggs.

7. Downy Mildew

Damp conditions can encourage fungal disease problems.

8. Rotting in Storage

Poor curing, damaged bulbs or excessively humid storage can cause decay.

Ten Common Mistakes When Growing Banana Shallots

1. Not checking the variety. Some elongated shallots are grown from sets, while others are best grown from seed.
2. Assuming every banana shallot multiplies. Seed-grown types may produce one bulb per plant.
3. Planting at the wrong time. Follow the recommended planting window.
4. Growing in waterlogged soil. Good drainage is essential.
5. Choosing a shaded position. Shallots generally perform best in full sun.
6. Planting too closely. Give plants enough room to develop.
7. Allowing weeds to take over. Weed regularly and carefully.
8. Overfeeding. Excessive fertiliser doesn’t guarantee larger bulbs.
9. Harvesting before maturity. Check the foliage and bulb development.
10. Storing bulbs before they’re dry. Proper curing improves storage life.

UK Banana Shallot Growing Calendar

Month	Growing jobs
January	Plan seed sowing and check stored planting material.
February	Start suitable banana shallot seeds under cover.
March	Continue indoor sowing and plant suitable spring sets.
April	Direct-sow suitable seeds and transplant hardened-off seedlings.
May	Weed regularly and monitor leaf growth.
June	Check watering and developing bulbs.
July	Harvest early mature crops and begin curing.
August	Harvest later crops, dry bulbs and organise storage.
September	Choose suitable autumn-planting varieties and prepare beds.
October	Plant suitable autumn sets where recommended.
November	Check drainage and monitor established plantings.
December	Protect beds from prolonged waterlogging and check stored shallots.

The dates will vary according to variety, weather and growing location.

Frequently Asked Questions About Echalion and Banana Shallots

What are echalion shallots?

Echalion shallots are elongated shallot-type alliums, commonly sold as banana or long shallots.

Are echalion shallots the same as banana shallots?

The terms are often used interchangeably for elongated types, but the exact variety and botanical classification can differ.

Are banana shallots just long onions?

They’re closely related to onions, but some varieties are traditional multiplying shallots while others are seed-grown and more onion-like.

What do banana shallots look like?

They are long, tapered bulbs with copper, brown or pinkish skins.

What do banana shallots taste like?

They generally have a mild, sweet, aromatic onion flavour.

Are banana shallots stronger than onions?

Usually they’re more delicate than many ordinary cooking onions, although varieties differ.

Can you eat banana shallots raw?

Yes. They’re useful raw in dressings, salads and other dishes.

Can you roast banana shallots?

Yes. They become sweet and tender when roasted.

Are banana shallots good for frying?

Yes. Their elongated shape makes them easy to slice for frying.

Can you grow banana shallots in the UK?

Yes. Suitable varieties grow successfully in British gardens and allotments.

What is the best banana shallot variety to grow?

‘Longor’ is worth considering for multiplying sets, while ‘Zebrune’ is a popular seed-grown variety.

Can you grow echalion shallots from seed?

Yes. Some varieties, including ‘Zebrune’, are grown from seed.

Can you grow banana shallots from sets?

Yes. Traditional multiplying types such as ‘Longor’ are commonly sold as sets.

Do banana shallots multiply?

Some do. Traditional set-grown varieties multiply into clusters, while seed-grown types usually form one bulb per seedling.

When should you plant banana shallots in the UK?

Suitable sets may be planted in autumn or spring, depending on variety. Seeds are commonly started in late winter or sown outdoors in spring.

When should you sow ‘Zebrune’ seeds?

Late winter under cover or spring outdoors is generally suitable.

How deep do you plant banana shallot sets?

Plant traditional sets shallowly, leaving the pointed tip just visible above the soil.

How far apart should banana shallots be planted?

For multiplying sets, allow approximately 15–20 cm between plants and 25–30 cm between rows.

Can banana shallots grow in pots?

Yes. Use a sufficiently large container with good drainage and suitable growing compost.

Do banana shallots need full sun?

Yes. Full sun supports healthy foliage and bulb development.

When are banana shallots ready to harvest?

Many varieties are ready in summer, commonly July or August.

How long do banana shallots take to grow?

The growing period depends on whether they’re started from seed or sets and when they’re planted.

How long can banana shallots be stored?

Well-cured, healthy bulbs can often keep for several months, commonly six to eight months under suitable conditions.

Can you save banana shallots for planting?

Healthy bulbs from traditional multiplying varieties can sometimes be saved as sets, while seed-grown varieties are generally more predictably grown from named seed.

Can you use banana shallots instead of ordinary onions?

Yes. They’re useful substitutes in many recipes, although the flavour may be milder.

Final Thoughts: Why Echalion and Banana Shallots Are Worth Growing

Echalion and banana shallots are fantastic vegetables to add to your allotment or garden.

Their elongated shape makes them stand out from ordinary shallots, and their mild, sweet flavour is particularly useful in cooking.

They can be sliced, roasted, fried or added to sauces, and they’re an excellent alternative to ordinary onions when you want something a little more delicate.

But the biggest thing to remember is that not every banana shallot grows in the same way.

If you’re buying a traditional multiplying variety such as ‘Longor’, you can plant sets and potentially harvest clusters of elongated bulbs.

If you’re growing a seed variety such as ‘Zebrune’, each seedling generally develops into an individual bulb.

Both methods can produce excellent results.

Choose the one that best suits your gardening experience and the space available.

For beginners, healthy named planting sets are often the easiest option.

If you enjoy raising plants from seed, however, growing banana shallots in modular trays is a rewarding project.

And once your plants are established, the care is relatively straightforward.

Give them plenty of sunshine, fertile soil and good drainage.

Keep weeds under control, water during prolonged dry weather and avoid unnecessary overfeeding.

When the leaves naturally begin yellowing and falling over, check whether the bulbs are ready to harvest.

Then dry them thoroughly and store them somewhere cool and well ventilated.

If you’ve never tried growing banana shallots before, I’d definitely recommend giving them a go.

They’re an interesting addition to the allotment, delicious in the kitchen and a brilliant way to discover another type of allium.

And when you’re cooking with your own home-grown shallots, you’ll be glad you made room for them.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!