Allium giganteum

Allium giganteum, common name giant onion, is an Asian species of onion, native to central and southwestern Asia but cultivated in many countries as a flowering garden plant. It is the tallest species of Allium in common cultivation, growing to 1.5 metres (4.9 ft).In early to midsummer, small globes of intense purple umbels appear, followed by attractive fruiting umbels. A popular cultivar, 'Globemaster', is shorter (80 centimetres (31 in)) but produces much larger, deep violet, umbels (15–20 centimetres (5.9–7.9 in)). Both varieties have been granted the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.In nature, the species is found in Iran, Afghanistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. In cultivation in the US, it performs well in USDA hardiness zones 6–10.Eating flowers, seeds, leaves, and stems can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea due to the sulfides they contain.

🌳 The giant onion is a tall plant with large flower heads, making it perfect for use as cut or dried flowers. It adds height and a striking aesthetic to borders and beds, making it an ideal choice for cottage and informal gardens. This plant is highly attractive to butterflies, features fragrant blooms and foliage, and is relatively resistant to deer.

🎭 Unity, Humility, Patience

Characteristics

Plant Type

Herb

Life Cycle

Perennial, Annual

Genus

Allium

Family

Amaryllidaceae

Hardiness Zone

6-11

Mature Height

49 cm to 61 cm

Mature Spread

20 cm

Leaf Color

Green, Gray, Blue

Leaf Type

Deciduous

Flower Color

Purple, Pink, Violet

Flower Size

15.24 cm to 20.32 cm

Bloom Time

Late spring, Early summer

Planting Time

Spring, Winter, Summer, Autumn

Harvest Time

Mid summer

Native Area

Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, India, Iran, Pakistan, Turkmenistan

Tags (17)

Common Names (6)