United States: Schubert’s garlic, Tumbleweed onion
United Kingdom: Ornamental onion, Firework allium
Germany: Schuberts Lauch
Description:
Growth Habit: Perennial bulbous plant.
Height: Typically grows up to 1-2 feet (30-60 cm).
Flower Structure: Large, spherical umbels resembling fireworks, consisting of pink to purple star-shaped flowers.
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer.
Leaves: Broad, strap-like, basal leaves that die back by the time the flowers bloom.
Bulb: Tunicate bulb, which means it has a papery outer covering.
Known Range:
Native Range: Middle East, specifically from Israel to Iran.
Cultivated Range: Widely grown in temperate regions worldwide as an ornamental plant.
Care Requirements:
Light: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential; thrives in sandy or loamy soils.
Watering: Moderate water needs; allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 4-9.
Planting Depth: Plant bulbs about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) deep in the soil.
Spacing: Space bulbs approximately 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) apart.
Maintenance: Low maintenance; remove spent flower heads to encourage bulb growth. Mulch in colder climates to protect from frost.
Propagation: Typically propagated by bulbs; can also be grown from seed but takes several years to flower.
Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases, though can occasionally suffer from onion fly or fungal infections in poorly drained soils.
Uses:
Ornamental: Popular in gardens and landscapes for its striking flower heads; often used in borders, rock gardens, and as cut flowers.
Dried Arrangements: Flower heads can be dried and used in floral arrangements.
Many of the flowering plants featured on our website are available through Nature Hills Nursery. Ordering them through this link will support the Cernunnos Foundation and your garden!
