A genus of flowering plants known as Allium is a member of the Allieae tribe and the Alliodeae subfamily of the Amaryllidaceae family.
Due to the genus’ complex taxonomy of evolutionary lines, there is disagreement over exactly which plants go under it. Therefore, estimates of the number of species range from roughly 260 to just under a thousand.
Botanical Characteristics, Colors, and Fragrances
Herbaceous plants known as alliums produce blossoms that smell or taste strongly like onions or garlic. They grow a variety of green leaves, from broad to straight or curled.
They produce a number of globe-shaped or cascading blossoms in hues of purple, blue, pink, red, yellow, and white, as well as various more varieties. Clusters of tiny flowers can be found on blooms.
Popular Allium Flower Types, Species, and Cultivars
We consume garlic, onions, chives, shallots, leeks, and other common alliums.
The appeal of ornamental cultivars has increased as well. Our favorites are as follows:
The Allium Giganteum
There are also several additional species and hybrids, including things like:
- ‘Cristophii’ allium
- Allium ‘Purple Sensation’ or ‘Hollanddicum’
- ‘Caeruleum’ Allium
- “Flavum” Allium
- ‘Beau regard’ allium
- “Rosenorum” Allium
- “Millennium” Allium
- Round and purple allium.
Etymological Meaning
The term Allium is derived from the Latin word for garlic. It is believed to have come from the Greek verb aleo, which meant to stay away from. Maybe because of the overwhelming smell of garlic.
Is Allium fragrant?
a softball-sized, dense flowered umbel globe perched atop a 46′ (1.21.8 m) tall, thick, hollow, naked stalk. The actual flowers are tiny, star-shaped spheres of blooms that can number up to 100 on a single stem. The aroma of the blooms is mild, resembling that of violets, but when the stem is cut or damaged, Allium emits a powerful scent that establishes its identity as a massive onion.
Special Care
Hold each stem upside down and spin it by rolling the stalk back and forth between your palms if the flower heads come flattened.
Once the blossoms are submerged in water, the onion scent that develops when the stems are chopped or crushed will go away.
Flowers are sensitive to ethylene; before regular processing, recut stems and apply an anti-ethylene treatment. Before using or moving to cool storage, allow to stand in a preservative at room temperature for at least one night.
Fun Facts:
Allium is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat blood disorders like hypertension and arteriosclerosis.
Allium, garlic, and their savory cousins were favorites of the Romans, who are credited with introducing the cultivation and usage of the bulbs wherever they went.
Allium has been revered for millennia together with other members of the onion family not only for its flavor but also as a folk cure, aphrodisiac, and talisman against misfortune.
Although allium is native to the arid, chilly mountains of the Northern Hemisphere, it has successfully adapted and is now grown in practically every continent and environment.
Allium blooms can be used as a garnish or fresh component. They are edible and have a faint onion flavor.
The word Allium, which means garlic and belongs to the Allioideae subfamily, is borrowed from Latin.
The plant is a show-stopper for practically any style of arrangement, whether it is massed or used as a sparse primary focus because of its clean, bold lines.
a plant that belongs to the Alliaceae family, which also includes chives, narcissus, and nerines.
Are alliums odiferous?
Alliums are the shining, regal planets of the garden, the center of the whirling universe of bulbs. The strongest flower of the season, alliums are never the first spring-flowering bulbs to bloom.
Alliums are the decorative cousins of onions; they are known for their flower clusters, which are frequently grouped in loose clusters of suspended bells that resemble tassles. Tall alliums, especially ‘Gladiator,’ which stands every inch of 4 feet tall among the peonies and has purple flower heads the size of a softball, are not for timid gardeners, but the huge world of alliums also has a modest side.
There are roughly 700 species in the genus allium, which is incredibly diverse. Little Allium moly, sometimes known as golden garlic, is only around a foot tall and blooms in early summer with dancing clusters of bright yellow flowers. The two-foot-tall Allium aschersonianum produces flowerheads that are exceptionally dark pink and the size of a tennis ball. One of the first alliums to bloom, Allium rosenbachianum, produces five-inch spherical flowerheads that are colored purple, white, or a deep lilac. Most allium flowerheads continue to be quite showy on their tall wands well into early summer, even after the blooms have faded.
Rarely do allium blossoms smell like onions.
Only when the leaves is crushed does it have a pungent scent. Alliums are among the easiest spring-flowering bulbs to raise; few are as little maintenance. They tolerate a surprising amount of shade but blossom profusely in direct sunlight. Thus, alliums can be planted successfully among roses, peonies, hostas, and ferns as well as underneath and around shrubs and trees. Chives are a fantastic herb garden edging and look lovely in front of roses, in a rock garden, or along the edge of a flower bed. They are easy to grow from seed and produce a lacy edge at the front of a border. The tallest alliums are similar to garden sculptures; plant a few bulbs in the front of the flower bed as well because you’ll want to shake them by the stems, pet their fuzzy heads, and closely examine the thousands of brilliant blossoms they produce.
Are alliums toxic?
Leeks, garlic, and onions are allium species. There are several different organosulphoxides in these plants. Heinz bodies are produced when sulphaemoglobin, which is produced as a result of the oxidative damage caused by the organosulphoxides, precipitates, aggregates, and binds to cell membranes. Direct oxidative damage to cell membranes results in the formation of centrocytes. The enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) within erythrocytes is likewise depleted by the primary hazardous chemical n-propyl disulphide, making them more vulnerable to oxidative damage. Cell fragility and extravascular hemolysis are both exacerbated by the production of Heinz bodies and eccentrocytes. The recticuloendothelial system removes Heinz body-containing erythrocytes from circulation, resulting in anemia.
Allium poisoning has been reported in cases in cats and dogs, but two recent papers reveal sickness in alien species. After consuming leeks (Allium ampeloprasum) over a period of 2 to 5 days, a South American coati (Nasua nasua) experienced Heinz body anemia. With supportive care and a blood transfusion, he made a full recovery. Three African spurred tortoises (Centrochelys sulcata), one Aldadra giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea), and one other tortoise became ill after consuming wild garlic (Allium ursinum, also known as ramson). Heinz bodies were not a common occurrence in the reptiles, but their hemological findings were comparable to those of other species. Two of the turtles passed away.
Allium species should not be fed to domestic pets or foreign animals.
What flavor do alliums have?
There are hundreds of species in the monocotyledonous flowering plant genus Allium, including the cultivated varieties of onion, garlic, scallion, shallot, leek, and chives. The Latin term for garlic, Allium, serves as the generic name for the genus, while Allium sativum, which translates to “cultivated garlic,” is the type species for the genus. [6]
The genus Allium was initially described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. Greek (aleo, to avoid) is referred to in some accounts as a result of the scent of garlic. [7] Since the beginning of time, different Allium species have been farmed. Approximately a dozen species are economically significant as crops, or garden vegetables, and an increasing number of species are significant as aesthetic plants. [7] [8]
It is taxonomically challenging to decide which species to place in the genus Allium, because the boundaries between different species are not always evident. There are estimates for as few as 260[9] and as many as 979 species. [10]
Except for a few species that grow in Chile, Brazil, and tropical Africa, allium species are found in temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere. These species include A. juncifolium, A. sellovianum, and A. sellovianum (A. spathaceum). They range in height from 5 to 150 cm. An umbel of flowers grows at the tip of a stalk devoid of leaves. The size of the bulbs varies depending on the species, ranging from little (about 23 mm in diameter) to very large (810 cm). Leeks (A. ampeloprasum) and Welsh onions (A. fistulosum) are two examples of species that produce enlarged leaf bases rather than true bulbs.
Allium plants contain chemical compounds that give them a distinctive onion or garlic flavor and odor, which are primarily derived from cysteine sulfoxides.
[7] Despite the fact that not all species in the genus have the same flavor, several are used as food plants. Most of the time, both the bulb and the leaves are edible. The amount of sulfates in the soil the plant grows in affects the flavor of alliums. [7] Allium species totally lose their typical pungent qualities when growth conditions are sulfur-free, which happens infrequently.
Do alliums have a garlicky smell?
(So far) this has been a fantastic year for ornamental onions. You can see why I fell in love with alliums 20 years ago and would never be without several new varieties each year. For several years now, alliums have been the “must have” plant for many gardeners.
They are known as alliums in books and catalogs, and they bloom in May and June, just after the spring bulb bloom but before the jubilation of summer. After losing their color for a few weeks, many of them have eye-catching seed heads. They have a wonderful variety of heights, sizes, and colors, are hardy and simple to cultivate, and hold up straight most of the time without any support.
There are about 260 species of bulbous perennials in the allium genus, many of which are well-known in vegetable gardens. When the leaves are crushed, they release their characteristic, pungent aroma to varied degrees, making onions, leeks, shallots, garlic, and chives easy to identify.
Try to figure out the solution to this query (answer at the bottom of this page). Of course, alliums belong to the onion family. Which of the following, however, is NOT a member of the onion family?
Agapanthus, first 2) Daflon 3) Tulip Four) Snowdrop
There are short variations, like Allium nevskianum, which only reaches a height of about 15 cm, and taller types, like Gladiator, which I’ve observed growing to an incredibly astounding 165 cm tall.
It’s a good idea to grow alliums through herbaceous or shrubby ground-cover plants because, in the majority of cases, allium leaves have already begun to die off by the time the flowers are produced. This will help hide any dead or dying foliage and create a pleasing backdrop for the eye-catching flowers. Interestingly, alliums are incredibly tasty to bees, butterflies, and other useful insects, but
Planting alliums
Alliums thrive in full sun, free-draining soil, and areas protected from high winds (otherwise the taller varieties will need staking).
Purchased now, bulbs should be planted in late summer or early autumn. And don’t be shy about planting them; the more of these plants you have, the more drama they produce.
Generally speaking, it is ideal to cover the bulbs with soil that is approximately three times their own depth. In order to lessen the possibility of unintentionally digging up or slicing through the buried bulbs, I usually mark the planting location with a stone.
Plant the bulbs beneath the foliage of nearby plants so that their decaying foliage will be buried when the alliums themselves are dying off at the end of their flowering season.
eatured with Anemone blanda and blue-and-white chionodoxas, forming a very lovely spring landscape.
The plants quickly reach a height of 75-90 cm, and in May or June, they begin to bloom. Heads may measure up to 25 cm in diameter or even larger.
Numerous varieties have scents, and some of the perfumes, in my opinion, are more potent and superior to roses. But it’s crucial to note that aroma is quite subjective; what one person may find to be a beautiful perfume may be unpleasant or nonexistent to another.
On-going care of alliums
If left alone, alliums don’t require special care and can live for many years.
They will benefit from additional watering while in leaf if the growing season is extremely dry. A high-potash liquid fertilizer, like a tomato fertilizer, should be applied every two weeks starting in the second year, when the plants are in their flowering stage.
Remove the heads once the flowers have completed blooming and let the stems naturally wither away (which will help to feed the bulb). Remove all dead foliage and flower stems in the late summer.
Alliums in containers
Many types of alliums can be grown in pots, but it’s usually better to avoid species that grow particularly tall. They will be content as long as the pot is deep enough to hold the bulb. Grit, multipurpose compost, and John Innes No. 3 are the three components that make up the perfect compost. Each fall, it’s preferable to repot bulbs into new compost; if the leaves are allowed to fall naturally, they won’t need additional feeding.
Getting the best look with alliums
Mix stronger colors for a modern, striking effect. Alchemilla mollis or euphorbia can be used as a leafy filler to muddle yellow tulips or doronicum daisies with alliums on either side of a path. Alternately, recreate one of the most renowned allium scenes ever, from Gloucestershire’s Barnsley House’s famous tunnel, where alliums stretch up to arches draped with yellow laburnum. This scene was created by plantswoman Rosemary Verey.
Growing alliums alongside plants that have silver or blue-gray leaves, like Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ or Artemisia ‘Powis Castle,’ is one of the simplest gardening techniques and both of these plants look amazing contrasting the bright allium globe flowers.
A. multibulbosum ‘Nigrum’ and other white alliums provide structure and beauty to tranquil white or green planting schemes.
The magnificent Mount Everest, which appears best against a dark background to set it off, was one of my favorite combos (mine was a deep green thuja hedge).
Allium sphaerocephalon blooms relatively late, in August, and has a little maroon and green egg-like appearance. Some of it is sandwiched between Stipa tenuissima grass and low-growing, late-flowering Michaelmas daisies. The grass highlighted the delicate mauve hue of the allium flowers, while the daisies served as a great prop for the 70cm allium stems.
Alliums indoors
Few people are aware that alliums may be appreciated indoors just as much. To lessen the oniony scent of a cut flower, add a drop of bleach to the water, or change the water frequently. They shouldn’t need to be rearranged for up to 14 days in order to maintain their appearance. Alliums also produce good dried flowers that keep well indoors for a long time. My acquaintance preserved her vibrant alliums in a hallway vase for three years.
Allium varieties
- Atropurpureum Allium This Eastern European species, with its reddish-purple, blue-purple, and deep pink blossoms, really values a location in the sun. Plant in groups. Additionally, roses go great with it. 85 cm tall.
- Gladiator Allium
- Each enormous flower head is 20 cm in diameter or larger and is filled with numerous tiny florets, each of which is a deep pink or rose-purple. Take a close look at the flowerheads since there is more to notice the closer you look. One of the tallest varieties is this one. and up to 140 cm tall.
- Mount Everest, Allium
- This beautiful species grows to a height of about a meter and has balls of 50 or more white, pointed blooms on top. They endure for several months. To make a beautiful backdrop for additional plants, use it at the back of flower borders. 95 cm tall.
- Ambassador for Allium
- An beautiful giant, its flower head is made up of small star blossoms and is a vibrant purple color. Early summer brings five weeks of flowering, while late summer brings lovely seed heads. 140 cm or shorter.
- Purple Allium Sensation
- among the greatest. A stunning image is created by the 100 or more lavender stars that emerge from the flower stalk’s tip. Discover why this is one of the nicest plants to have in your yard by planting multiple bulbs near to one another. 75 cm tall.
- sphaerocephalon allium
- The flower head is packed with several blossoms that change color from green to red or rose-purple.
- Forelock Allium
- This type has only recently become accessible. If you look closely, you can almost make out hundreds of small, full-cheeked faces with silvery whiskers and spiky, red and white hair. 60 centimeters in height.
- Drops of allium green
- This new variation for 2017 will have you looking twice! From the primary flower head, little florets protrude from the flowers. Don’t wait to place your order if you absolutely must have genuine collectors’ products because it is a brand-new and rare type. 70 cm tall.
- A. nevskianum Allium
- Dark pink, deep crimson, or purple wide flower heads that are close to the ground and positioned between two broad leaves. 15 centimeters tall.
- Silver Spring Allium
- This allium is a gem and has a strong scent. Six petals and a rich purple center with a jewel-like radiance define its clear white to blush pink blossoms. 70 cm tall.
I hope I have piqued your interest in the lovely ornamental onions. Grow a handful of these magnificent Allium bulbs, and I promise that people will assume you hired a skilled landscape architect!
The Allium Conundrum has a solution: 3) Tulip. According to botany, alliums are a part of the Allioideae plant subfamily, which belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family, which also includes daffodils, crocuses, and many other bulbous plants, such as amaryllis. But tulips belong to a separate plant family, Liliaceae, which also includes lilies, fritillaries, and dog’s tooth violet (erythronium).