Ornamental onion Allium 'Purple Suze'
ABOUT
The Allium 'Purple Suze' is an ornamental onion known for its attractive spherical clusters of flowers. The blossoms are a deep, vibrant purple hue that add a pop of color to gardens. Each flowerhead is composed of numerous small, star-shaped flowers tightly packed together, creating a pom-pom like appearance. These flowerheads bloom atop sturdy, upright stems, giving the impression of a floating sphere of color. The foliage of 'Purple Suze' is typically a bluish-green, with strap-shaped leaves that form a clump at the base of the plant. The leaves often have a slight gloss to them and can sometimes appear twisted or curled, providing a contrasting texture to the smooth, round flowerheads. The overall visual impact of Allium 'Purple Suze' is one of bold color and spherical forms which stand out against the background of garden greenery.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Ornamental Onion, Allium 'Purple Suze', Purple Suze Allium, Allium 'Purple Suze' Ornamental Onion
Common names
Allium atropurpureum 'Purple Suze'.
ToxicityTo humans
Ornamental alliums, like 'Purple Suze', are generally considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. Ingestion of small amounts typically does not cause severe problems; however, eating large quantities of the bulbs, leaves, or stems may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It's important to note that all parts of the plant can have a certain level of toxicity. People with a sensitivity to alliums or those who consume an excessive amount may be at higher risk for adverse effects. Care should be taken to avoid ingesting parts of the plant, and it should be kept out of reach of young children who might accidentally consume it.
To pets
Ornamental alliums, which include 'Purple Suze', are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. If a pet ingests any part of the plant, it could lead to symptoms of toxicity such as drooling, nausea, oral irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, elevated heart rate, weakness, and even collapse. In severe cases, particularly if large amounts are ingested, it may cause oxidative damage to red blood cells leading to hemolytic anemia. It is important to keep ornamental alliums out of reach of pets and to seek veterinary attention immediately if you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
0-1 feet (0-30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Allium 'Purple Sensation' adds striking visual appeal to gardens with its bold purple flower heads.
- Low Maintenance: This allium variety is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once established.
- Pollinator Friendly: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting the local ecosystem.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Allium 'Purple Sensation' can tolerate periods of dry conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: The plant's odor and taste tend to deter deer and rodents from grazing on it.
- Long Bloom Time: Provides a long period of bloom in late spring to early summer, offering long-lasting garden interest.
- Easy to Propagate: Bulb division or seed collection makes it easy to propagate and spread around the garden.
- Interplanting Benefits: Can be planted among other perennials to hide their dieback as they retreat for the season.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The bright purple flowers of the ornamental onion can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics and textiles.
- Photography Prop: The striking color and form of ornamental onion make it an excellent subject for botanical photography and garden portfolios.
- Decorative Borders: Ornamental onions can be planted to create vivid and attractive borders along walkways or garden edges.
- Flower Arranging: The long-lasting blooms are ideal for inclusion in both fresh and dried floral arrangements, adding height and color.
- Garden Design: The plant can be used to provide a contrasting backdrop for lower-growing flowers in a garden, enhancing the overall design.
- Eco-Friendly Confetti: Dried petals of ornamental onions can be used as a biodegradable confetti alternative in celebrations.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly used, the petals can provide an edible garnish for salads and cold dishes, adding a hint of onion flavor.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may be inspired by the unique shape and color of the plant, incorporating it into paintings or textile designs.
- Education: Ornamental onions can be used in educational settings to teach about bulbous plants and their life cycles.
- Companion Planting: When paired with other plants, it can help to deter certain pests due to its onion-like scent, while attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Ornamental Onion is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Ornamental Onion is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Unity: Alliums, also known as ornamental onions, are composed of many small flowers that form a spherical cluster, symbolizing the unity of many parts into a whole.
- Patience: The bulb of the Allium takes time to develop before it blooms, representing patience and the idea that all good things come to those who wait.
- Strength: Alliums have a strong structure and stand tall on their stems, symbolizing strength and endurance.
- Prosperity: Alliums can grow in various conditions and are resilient, often seen as a symbol of abundance and prosperity.
- Good fortune: Their globe-like appearance is sometimes associated with good luck, making Alliums a favorable plant in gardens for those looking for a little extra fortune.
WaterOrnamental onions should be watered regularly, providing the soil with moisture without over-saturating it. During the growing season, watering once a week with about 1 inch of water should suffice. Ensure the water penetrates deeply by watering at the base of the plant to reach the roots. During dry spells, you may need to increase the frequency of watering to maintain consistent soil moisture. On average, this translates to about half a gallon every week per plant, depending on the size of the ornamental onion and environmental conditions.
LightOrnamental onions prefer full sun conditions, meaning they thrive when they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for them is in an open area where sunlight is not obstructed by buildings or trees. Partial shade is tolerable, but the blooms may not be as prolific or vibrant.
TemperatureOrnamental onions are hardy and can survive temperature extremes from about -20°F to 90°F. However, they flourish best when the temperature is between 55°F and 75°F, which promotes strong growth and blooming. They are often planted in spring after the threat of frost has passed.
PruningPruning ornamental onions involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. It's best to remove the flower heads as they start to fade and before they set seed. However, many gardeners like to leave some flower heads for fall and winter interest, providing texture to the garden. Pruning should be done after flowering, typically in late summer or early fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilOrnamental Onion 'Purple Suze' thrives best in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A good soil mix could be composed of garden soil, compost, and a handful of coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage.
RepottingOrnamental Onions, including 'Purple Suze', generally do not require frequent repotting and can be done every 3-4 years or once the bulbs have multiplied and seem overcrowded in their current container.
Humidity & MistingOrnamental Onion 'Purple Suze' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but prefers a drier atmosphere typical of outdoor conditions rather than high indoor humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleAllium 'Purple Suze', commonly known as Purple Suze ornamental onion, begins its life cycle when a gardener plants its bulb in well-drained soil, typically in late autumn. The bulb overwinters and, with the arrival of spring, sends up shoots that develop into sturdy stems and linear foliage. In late spring to early summer, the plant reaches the flowering stage, producing striking, spherical purple blooms that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. After blooming, the flowers will set seed, which can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, potentially leading to new plants in subsequent seasons. Once flowering is complete, the plant enters a dormant phase in late summer; the foliage dies back, and the bulb conserves energy to survive through the winter. The cycle begins anew the following spring, with the bulb sprouting fresh growth to repeat the process.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Allium 'Purple Sensation', often referred to as ornamental onion, is generally propagated by dividing the bulbs, which is the most popular method for this plant. The best time to propagate by bulb division is in the fall after the foliage has died back. To propagate, carefully dig up the clump of bulbs and gently separate them, making sure that each new bulb has a portion of the roots attached. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (15 cm) and space them approximately 8 inches (20 cm) apart to allow for growth. This simple method allows for the quick multiplication of Allium 'Purple Sensation' plants and ensures that the characteristics of the parent plant are maintained.
