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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Ornamental Onion performs well with relatively little water once established. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Ornamental Onion after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
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 easier irrigation and care, group Ornamental Onion with species that also favour happy on low water and cool-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Buying Ornamental Onion
Plant Sale lists Ornamental Onion as bulbs. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
