A kitchen staple worth growing for the choice of varieties and the satisfaction of a homegrown harvest. Day-length sensitive, so match the variety to your sowing season.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 40 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Onion
Allium cepa is an moderate-growing edible plant in the Amaryllidaceae family. It reaches around 40 cm tall at maturity.
Where to grow Onion
Onion suits warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Onion does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Onion is regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Onion in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Onion in the garden
Onion earns its place for edible harvests.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Onion with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Onion
Plant Sale lists Onion as seed and seedlings. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Onion seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.