Grow A Bloomin’ Onion
By Ray Novitske, Fairfax Master Gardener
![photo: University of Arkansas Research & Extension Allium gigantium](https://fairfaxgardening.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/allium-1.jpg)
Allium gigantium
Alliums are members of the Amarylidaceae family, which includes amaryllis, leeks, scallions, leeks, chives and of course, onions. There are about 600 different species of alliums, and most of them are native to North America, with the remaining hundred or so occurring in China. A handful are also found in Europe, Africa and Asia.
![photo: North Carolina State University Drumstick allium](https://fairfaxgardening.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/drumstick.jpg)
Drumstick allium, Allium sphaerocephalon
After blooming, the foliage eventually dies back like tulips and daffodils, leaving the dormant bulb underground until ready to produce a new bloom the following year. Alliums need a warm period after blooming to replenish the food in the bulb for the next year, in addition to a cold period during winter. They also do not survive well in poorly-drained soil — not needing frequent watering. Some consider them to be drought-tolerant.
One of the best known alliums is the giant Allium giganteum, a native of central Asia. Its ball of lilac blue flowers appearing in June can measure 6 inches in diameter on stalks that are 3 to 5 feet tall. This tall variety can be damaged by high winds, so staking may be necessary.
![photo: Colorado State University Allium cristophii](https://fairfaxgardening.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Allium-c.jpg)
Allium cristophii
The earlier blooming allium ‘Globemaster’ is a new introduction with large 8 to 10 inch silver purple flower clusters. The shorter 24-inch-high stems and sturdiness allow the flowers to remain upright.
![photo: Michigan State University Extension Spray painted allium seed heads](https://fairfaxgardening.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/spray-painted.jpg)
Spray painted allium seed heads
Once flowers are finished, some crafty gardeners have taken to spray painting the seed stalks to continue appreciating their show. A can of spray paint and a dried flower head can create a striking fireworks-like sculpture to display through the summer. And if stiff enough, you can cut them off at the base, spray them, and insert them back into the ground in the locations where you want them.
![photo: University of Maryland Extension allium leafminer](https://fairfaxgardening.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/miner.jpg)
Allium leafminer
Low maintenance and deer resistant flowers are hard to come by. If searching for showy, attention-getting blossoms that appear after the spring blooms and before the perennials come out, consider planting some alliums this fall.
References
• Alliums Create Landscape Interest, David Trinklein, University of Missouri
• Extend the gardening season with—what, spray paint?, Rebecca Finneran, Michigan State
University Extension
• Allium giganteum, North Carolina State Extension
• Perennial Plant Feature: Alliums, Leonard Perry, University of Vermont
• Allium (Onion) Leafminer, Dr. Gerald Brust, University of Maryland Extension
• Allium giganteum, Missouri Botanical Garden