Persian Shallot Allium jesdianum 'Akbulak'

Names

• Family

  Amaryllidaceae

• Synonyms

  Akbulak Ornamental Onion, Jesdianum Allium

• Common names

  Allium jesdianum 'Akbulak'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Ornamental onion is generally not considered poisonous to humans. Most members of the allium family are actually edible and used in cooking. However, consuming large quantities of the plant, especially the bulb, could potentially cause digestive discomfort due to the presence of various sulfur compounds.

• To pets

  Ornamental onion is toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. Members of the allium family can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells leading to hemolytic anemia. Symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, and elevated heart and respiratory rates. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to lethargy, collapse, and in some instances, it can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Purple

• Height

  2 feet (60 cm)

• Spread

  1 foot (30 cm)

• Plant type

  Bulb

• Hardiness zones

  4

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Ornamental Appeal: Allium jesdianum, commonly known as the Persian Onion, features striking globular purple flowers that add a visual interest to any garden.
• Attracts Pollinators: Its blossoms are a magnet for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, which are crucial for the health of the ecosystem and aid in the pollination of other plants.
• Low Maintenance: Persian Onion is known for being drought-resistant and generally requires minimal care, making it a good choice for gardeners looking for low-maintenance plants.
• Deer and Rodent Resistant: The plant has a naturally occurring resistance to deer and rodents, reducing the likelihood of damage from these animals.
• Culinary Use: While not directly emphasizing medicinal properties or air purification, the plant belongs to the Allium family and some parts can be used in cooking for their onion-like flavor.
• Seasonal Interest: It provides seasonal interest with its late spring to early summer blooms, filling a bloom gap in gardens after the spring bulbs have faded.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Allium jesdianum 'Akbulak', also known as Ornamental Onion, can be used to create natural dye, with different parts of the plant yielding varying shades on fabrics.
• This plant's sturdy stems make it suitable for crafting homemade plant stakes or supports for other, more delicate flowers in the garden.
• The dried flower heads can serve as unique additions to floral arrangements or can be used in dried wreath making.
• Since Ornamental Onion has a strong scent, it can be used as a natural rodent repellent in gardens to protect other plants.
• The plant's seed pods can be collected and used as unique bullets in seed-dispersal experiments or educational activities.
• Allium jesdianum can be used in art projects, such as botanical prints or nature rubbings, due to its distinct flower shape.
• The fibrous leaves of Ornamental Onion can be used in crafts for making paper or natural twine.
• Children can use the hollow stems of Allium jesdianum for making simple whistles or tubes in outdoor play.
• The ornamental value of the plant makes it suitable as a living fence or border within landscape designs to create visual interest.
• Allium jesdianum 'Akbulak' can also be used as a tool for teaching horticulture and plant biology because of its interesting growth patterns and flower development.

Feng Shui

The Ornamental Onion is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Ornamental Onion is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Unity and Humility: As a member of the onion family, Allium jesdianum 'Akbulak', commonly known as ornamental onion, often symbolizes unity due to its layers, representing the many parts that come together to create a whole. Its bulbous growth can also reflect humility, as it starts growth hidden beneath the soil.
• Strength and Patience: Ornamental onions, with their sturdy stems and capability to thrive in a variety of conditions, embody strength and the ability to withstand adversity. They also teach patience, as they bloom in their own time without haste.
• Good Fortune and Prosperity: In some cultures, these plants are believed to bring luck and financial success, as their globe-like blooms suggest fullness and wealth.
• Protection: Historically, alliums have been thought to ward off evil spirits and bad luck, likely due to their pungent aroma, which was believed to repel negative influences and provide protection to those around them.