Perfect spheres of starry flowers float on tall stems, magnets for bees and superb fresh or dried. The oniony foliage deters browsing animals and dies back as the flowers open.
At a glance
- Plant type: Bulb
- Mature size: 80 cm H × 20 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Ornamental Onion
Botanically, Allium hybrid is a moderate-growing bulb in the Amaryllidaceae family. It reaches around 80 cm tall and 20 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Purple and white flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Ornamental Onion
Ornamental Onion suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice, is deer-resistant and is usually left alone by rabbits.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Ornamental Onion provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Ornamental Onion is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Ornamental Onion after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Ornamental Onion in the garden
Ornamental Onion earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, feeding bees and pollinators and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Ornamental Onion with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and cool-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Buying Ornamental Onion
Plant Sale lists Ornamental Onion as bulbs. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.