Ornamental Onion Allium 'Purple Giant'
ABOUT
Allium 'Purple Giant' is a striking ornamental plant renowned for its showy flower heads. This allium variety boasts large globular clusters of vivid purple, star-shaped flowers that form a dense spherical bloom. The blossoms provide a bold and dramatic display, often creating a focal point in the garden during their blooming period. Each individual flower is petite and composed of delicate petals that contribute to the overall pom-pom-like structure of the flower head. The flowers stand atop sturdy, upright stems, which rise above the plant's foliage. The leaves of the 'Purple Giant' are typically strap-shaped, with a lush green color that contrasts beautifully with the rich purple of the blooms. This ornamental onion is known not only for its visual impact but also for its ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The heady fragrance of the flowers can be quite noticeable, adding sensory appeal to its visual beauty. Overall, Allium 'Purple Giant' is a charismatic addition to any garden setting, delivering an eye-catching burst of color when in season.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Purple Giant Allium, Ornamental Onion, Giant Onion.
Common names
Allium 'Purple Giant'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Allium 'Purple Giant' is commonly known as ornamental onion. Allium species are not considered toxic to humans and are commonly used in cooking for their flavor. However, consuming large amounts of Allium plants might cause gastrointestinal discomfort due to irritants present in these plants.
To pets
The ornamental onion is toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. Ingesting this plant can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and drooling. In severe cases, ingestion of ornamental onion can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells leading to hemolytic anemia, which is a serious condition that may manifest as lethargy, pale mucous membranes, rapid breathing, and an increased heart rate. Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if a pet consumes any part of this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
3-4 feet (90-120 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Produces large, striking purple flowers that add visual appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for novice gardeners or low-maintenance landscapes.
- Drought Resistance: Adapts well to dry conditions, which reduces the need for frequent watering.
- Cold Hardy: Capable of withstanding cooler temperatures, which makes it a good choice for various climates.
- Deer Resistant: Less likely to be damaged by deer, which can be beneficial in areas where deer browsing is a concern.
- Easy to Propagate: Can be easily propagated from bulbs, allowing gardeners to expand their display or share with others.
- Long Bloom Time: Offers a lengthy flowering period compared to some other plants, providing extended beauty in the garden.
- Multipurpose Use: Can be used in mixed borders, garden beds, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photographic Subjects: The striking appearance of the Purple Giant makes it a popular choice among garden photographers and plant enthusiasts for its visual impact in images.
- Education and Research: Botany and horticulture students often use the Purple Giant as a case study to learn about plant biology, genetics, and the Allium genus diversity.
- Dye Production: The vibrant flowers of the Purple Giant can be used to create natural dyes for fabric and artisan crafts.
- Culinary Garnish: While not a common use, the ornamental blooms could be used as an edible garnish for special culinary presentations after proper verification of non-toxicity.
- Event Decorations: The striking flowers and tall stems of the Purple Giant are used in flower arrangements for weddings and other events.
- Companion Planting: Gardeners sometimes plant Purple Giant among vegetables as a companion plant to potentially deter certain pests due to its strong scent.
- Crafting: Dried Purple Giant flower heads can be incorporated into crafts, such as wreaths or dried flower arrangements.
- Floral Perfumery: Occasionally, the floral scent might be used in creating bespoke perfumes, but ensuring the plants are not toxic and handling safely is essential.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists use the Purple Giant as a muse for various types of art, including painting, sculpture, and textile design.
- Bee and Butterfly Gardening: Purple Giant can be included in gardens designed to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Purple Giant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Purple Giant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Unity: The spherical shape of the 'Purple Giant' allium's bloom often symbolizes unity, representing how multiple florets come together to form a single, harmonious cluster.
- Pride: The striking, bold color and towering height of the 'Purple Giant' can be a symbol of pride, showcasing confidence and accomplishment.
- Good Fortune: Alliums in general are sometimes considered to bring good luck, and the 'Purple Giant', with its large and eye-catching flowers, is no exception.
- Prosperity: The robust nature and size of the 'Purple Giant' often represent prosperity and abundance.
- Strength: The tall and sturdy stalk of the 'Purple Giant' can symbolize strength and resilience, standing tall through various conditions.
- Patience: As the 'Purple Giant' takes time to grow and reveal its full splendor, it can symbolize the virtue of patience and the rewards of waiting for the right moment.
WaterThe ornamental onion, commonly known as 'Purple Giant', should be watered deeply to saturate the soil around the roots, then allowed to dry between waterings. Typically, watering once a week with about 1 inch of water (approximately 0.6 gallons) will suffice, but this may vary depending on climate and soil conditions. In hot, dry periods, it may require more frequent watering, while in cooler, wet periods, it might need less. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
LightThe 'Purple Giant' ornamental onion thrives best in full sunlight conditions, where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. It is ideal to plant it in a spot that is exposed to uninterrupted sunshine during the day to ensure vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
TemperatureThe 'Purple Giant' ornamental onion prefers temperate conditions and grows best in a range between 55°F to 75°F. It can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F and survive short periods of cold up to about -4°F, but flourishing and flower production are optimal within the ideal range mentioned.
PruningPruning 'Purple Giant' ornamental onions isn't frequently necessary, but deadheading spent blooms encourages reblooming. Cut the flower stalks back to the base once the flowers have faded, typically after blooming in late summer or fall. This will also prevent the plants from self-seeding excessively.
CleaningAs needed
SoilOrnamental onions like 'Purple Giant' thrive in a well-draining soil mix with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A good recipe is to combine equal parts of loamy soil, compost, and sharp sand to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Ensuring the soil is not too soggy is essential for the health of these plants.
RepottingOrnamental onions generally do not require frequent repotting and can often be left undisturbed for several years. However, if the plant outgrows its container or the soil becomes poor, repotting every 3-4 years in the spring is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingOrnamental onions like 'Purple Giant' are not particularly demanding regarding humidity levels. They are adaptable and can thrive in the average outdoor humidity found in temperate climates. Excessive humidity is not necessary for their growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temperatures, and infrequent watering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleAllium 'Purple Giant', known as Purple Giant Allium, begins its life cycle as a dormant bulb planted in the fall. In spring, it sends up long, sturdy stems and strap-like leaves as the weather warms, initiating its vegetative growth stage. By late spring to early summer, it reaches the flowering stage, where large spherical clusters of purple flowers bloom atop the stems. Following pollination by insects attracted to its nectar, the plant enters the reproduction stage, developing seed capsules. Once the seeds mature, the plant begins to wither, and the foliage dies back, leading to the plant’s dormancy stage during late summer. The cycle is primed to restart when the bulb reactivates its growth the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
Propogation: Allium 'Purple Giant', commonly known as Ornamental Onion, is typically propagated by dividing its bulb clusters. The ideal time for this process is when the plant is dormant, usually after the leaves have died back which is often in late summer to autumn. To propagate, carefully lift the bulb clumps from the soil using a spade, ensuring minimal damage. Gently separate the bulbs from the main clump, making sure that each division has at least one growth point. Replant the bulbs at a depth approximately three times their diameter, spacing them about 8 inches (20 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. This method encourages the development of strong, individual plants that can mature to produce their characteristic large, purple blooms.
