Giant Allium Allium 'Globemaster'

Names

• Family

  Amaryllidaceae.

• Synonyms

  Ornamental Onion, Giant Allium, Allium 'Globemaster'.

• Common names

  Allium 'Globemaster'

Toxicity

• To humans

  Allium 'Globemaster', commonly known as 'Ornamental Onion', is generally not considered toxic to humans. However, ingestion in very large quantities may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea due to its strong, pungent nature. Such symptoms are typically not severe but can be uncomfortable. It is important to note that all parts of the plant have the potential to cause these symptoms if consumed in excess.

• To pets

  'Ornamental Onion' is toxic to cats and dogs. If pets ingest this plant, they can suffer from symptoms of Allium toxicosis. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, elevated heart and respiratory rates, weakness, and even collapse. Another serious potential consequence is the development of hemolytic anemia, as compounds in the plant can cause the breakdown of red blood cells. If you suspect your pet has ingested 'Ornamental Onion', it is crucial to seek veterinary attention promptly.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Purple

• Height

  3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)

• Spread

  1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)

• Plant type

  Bulb

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Eurasia

General Benefits

• Attractive Blooms: Allium 'Globemaster', commonly known as ornamental onion, produces large, spherical clusters of purple flowers that add aesthetic appeal to garden landscapes.
• Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care once established, which makes it an easy plant for gardeners of all skill levels.
• Drought Tolerant: Ornamental onion is quite drought-resistant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
• Pest Resistant: This plant is naturally resistant to pests, including deer and rodents, protecting other plants in its vicinity.
• Pollinator Friendly: The blooms of the Allium 'Globemaster' attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity in the garden.
• Long-Lasting Flowers: The flowers have a lengthy bloom time and can also be used for dried flower arrangements, providing long-term value.
• Architectural Interest: With its tall stems and eye-catching flower heads, this plant adds vertical interest and structure to garden beds and borders.
• Easy to Combine: It pairs well with a wide variety of other plants and flowers, offering flexibility in garden design.
• Multiplication Over Time: Ornamental onions can multiply over the seasons, providing more plants for expansion or sharing with other gardeners.

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 'Globemaster' can be used as a natural pest repellent in gardens because its strong scent can deter rodents and deer from feasting on nearby plants.
• The tall and sturdy stems of Globemaster can be used as natural plant supports for lighter, floppy plants or vines in a mixed flower bed.
• Dried Globemaster flower heads can be used to create decorative wreaths and floral arrangements that last for months.
• The vibrant purple blooms can also serve as a natural dye source for fabrics, yielding hues of light purple or lilac.
• Dried Allium 'Globemaster' heads can be used in crafts, such as making botanical suncatchers or embedding them in homemade candles for decoration.
• Globemaster flowers can be used as a natural confetti for outdoor celebrations, as they are biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
• The bulbs of Globemaster can be crushed and used in compost piles to accelerate decomposition and add essential nutrients.
• Allium 'Globemaster' can act as a companion plant, enhancing the growth and flavor of certain vegetables and herbs when planted nearby.
• Farmers and beekeepers may use Globemaster in or near their fields and hives to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to crops and gardens.
• The aesthetic appeal value of Globemaster can be harnessed to improve the visual impact of otherwise stark architectural landscapes.

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: The spherical shape of the 'Globemaster' flowerhead is often seen as a symbol of unity and togetherness, representing how many separate flowers come together to form one whole.
• Patience: As a plant that takes several years to bloom to its full potential, it symbolizes the virtue of patience and the reward of waiting.
• Strength: The sturdy stalks of the Allium 'Globemaster' can represent strength and resilience, as they stand tall and support the large flower heads.
• Prosperity: Due to its large and impressive bloom, it can symbolize abundance and prosperity.
• Protection: Historically, all alliums have been thought to have protective qualities, therefore, planting them in gardens was believed to ward off negative energies and pests.
• Eternal Life: The Allium 'Globemaster', with its perennial nature and recurring blooms, is sometimes associated with the concept of eternal life and continuity.