Ornamental Onion Allium 'Red Eye'
ABOUT
The Allium 'Red Eye' is a captivating ornamental onion that boasts a spherical cluster of flowers, often termed an umbel, which serves as a stunning visual focal point. These flowers exhibit a rich, purply-red hue, which adds a dramatic splash of color to garden settings. The individual florets are tiny and star-shaped, densely packed together to form the eye-catching globe-like bloom that is characteristic of many alliums. Complementing the vivid blooms are the plant’s foliage, comprised of strappy, green leaves that emanate from the base of the stalk. The leaves usually have a glossy texture, offering a lush backdrop to the striking flowers above. It is worth noting that the stems of 'Red Eye' rise gracefully above the foliage, presenting the floral globes with an elegant poise. Due to the plant's ornamental nature, it is popular among garden enthusiasts for its ability to add vertical interest and vibrant color to garden beds, borders, or even as a cut flower in floral arrangements. The allium flower generally blooms during the late spring to early summer, providing a seasonal show that complements many other garden plants. Their firm stems and globular inflorescences sway gently on breezy days, creating a dynamic and lively garden scene. Additionally, the allium is appreciated not just for its esthetic appeal but also for its resilience and low maintenance characteristics. Its eye-catching appearance harmonizes beautifully in cottage gardens, contemporary garden settings, and is especially valued for its contribution to pollinator-friendly gardens, with bees and butterflies often frequenting the blooms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Ornamental Onion, Flowering Onion, Red Eye Allium
Common names
Allium 'Red Eye'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Allium 'Red Eye', which belongs to the Allium family, is not significantly toxic to humans. In general, many members of the Allium genus, which includes onions, garlic, and chives, are considered edible and are widely used in cooking for their flavor. However, it is important to note that consuming large quantities of these plants, especially for individuals with a sensitivity to them, could potentially lead to digestive discomfort or irritation. Symptoms may include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
To pets
Allium 'Red Eye' belongs to the Allium family, which is known to be toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. Ingesting this plant can lead to a condition known as Allium poisoning. The symptoms in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and more seriously, hemolytic anemia, which is characterized by the destruction of red blood cells leading to weakness, pale mucous membranes, rapid breathing, jaundice, dark-colored urine, and in severe cases, it can be fatal if not treated promptly. Pet owners should keep animals away from this plant and seek veterinary assistance immediately if ingestion occurs.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Allium 'Red Eye' has striking purple flowers that can add visual interest and color to gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers of the plant attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which play an essential role in the ecosystem by helping in the pollination of other plants.
- Ease of Care: This allium variety is known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in the appropriate conditions.
- Drought Tolerance: Allium 'Red Eye' is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates or regions with water usage restrictions.
- Deer Resistance: The plant is resistant to deer, which can be beneficial in areas where deer browsing can be a problem for gardeners.
- Culinary Use: While predominantly ornamental, some allium species can be edible, though it's essential to confirm if this specific variety is safe for consumption before using it in cooking.
- Long Blooming Period: The plant is known for its long blooming period, providing a lasting display of color in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photographic subject: The Allium 'Red Eye' with its vibrant red-purple hue and spherical shape makes an attractive subject for photographers, particularly those specializing in plant and garden photography.
- Natural dye: The pigments in the flowers of Allium 'Red Eye' can potentially be used to create natural dyes for textiles and crafts.
- Culinary garnish: Although not a traditional edible, the Allium 'Red Eye' flowers can be used as a decorative garnish for upscale dishes, adding color and sophistication to plating.
- Floristry: The long-lasting and ornamental flowers of the Allium 'Red Eye' can be used in floral arrangements to add height and drama to a bouquet.
- Education and research: The Allium 'Red Eye' can be used for educational purposes, teaching botany students about plant morphology and reproduction.
- Artistic inspiration: The unique form and color of Allium 'Red Eye' can inspire artists and craftspeople in the creation of botanical illustrations, paintings, and decorative objects.
- Marker in breeding programs: Allium 'Red Eye' can serve as a marker plant in breeding programs or botanical gardens to visually signify specific areas or pathways.
- Theme gardens: It can be incorporated into theme gardens, such as a 'moon garden' where pale or shimmering plants are selected, and the 'Red Eye' provides a striking contrast at dusk.
- Wildlife attractant: The nectar and pollen-rich blooms can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity in a garden setting.
- Mood enhancement: Its bright color and unique appearance can have a positive effect on people's moods, making it an excellent choice for mental well-being gardens or therapeutic horticulture programs.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Allium is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Allium is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perseverance and Strength: The sturdy stems and robust growth of the allium signify the ability to stand firm and endure challenges.
- Unity: The composite nature of allium flowers, made up of many small florets, symbolizes the unity of the many parts making a whole, reflecting unity and togetherness in relationships.
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: Alliums are sometimes considered lucky plants, with their round, globe-like blooms representing fullness and wealth.
- Protection: Historically, alliums, members of the onion family, were thought to have protective qualities, warding off evil spirits and negative energies.
- Pride: Due to their height and impressive spherical flower heads, alliums can signify pride, suggesting confidence and self-assurance.
WaterThe Ornamental Onion 'Red Eye' requires consistent moisture, so water it once a week with about 1 inch of water, which is roughly 0.6 gallons for a typical garden area of 10 square feet. During the growing season in spring and early summer, the soil around Ornamental Onion 'Red Eye' should be kept moist but not waterlogged. In periods of drought or extreme heat, increase watering frequency to twice per week, ensuring that the water penetrates deeply into the soil to encourage root growth. Reduce watering in late summer as the plant goes dormant and rainfall provides sufficient moisture.
LightOrnamental Onion 'Red Eye' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It should be positioned in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. While the plant can tolerate some shade, too much shade can reduce the vigor and density of the flowers. The ideal spot would be a south or west-facing garden that gets ample sunlight throughout the day.
TemperatureOrnamental Onion 'Red Eye' prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 55°F and 75°F for optimal growth. It can survive short periods of colder weather, down to about 20°F, and can tolerate summer temperatures up to about 90°F. To ensure the health of the plant, it is best to avoid locations where temperature fluctuations are extreme, particularly areas that experience frost well into spring or early heatwaves.
PruningPruning of Ornamental Onion 'Red Eye' is mainly for aesthetic reasons and involves deadheading the spent flower heads to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent self-seeding. Pruning should be done after flowering, typically in late summer or early fall. It is not necessary to prune the foliage until it has completely died back, as the leaves provide energy to the bulb for the next growing season. Pruning can be done annually, whenever the flower stalks have faded and no longer add visual appeal.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAllium 'Red Eye', commonly known as Ornamental Onion, thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. A suitable soil mix for this plant would consist of two parts garden soil, one part compost, and one part perlite or sand to improve drainage. The soil pH should ideally be between 6.0 and 7.0. Regular fertilization during the growing season can enhance its growth and flowering.
RepottingOrnamental Onions typically do not require frequent repotting. Repotting Allium 'Red Eye' may be done every 3 to 4 years or when it becomes root-bound to provide fresh nutrients and more growth space. Dividing clusters of bulbs when they become overcrowded will also encourage vigorous growth.
Humidity & MistingAllium 'Red Eye', or Ornamental Onion, prefers average garden humidity levels. It does not require high humidity; thus, standard outdoor humidity conditions are typically adequate for its growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleAllium 'Red Eye', commonly known as ornamental onion, begins its life cycle when its seeds or bulbs are planted in well-draining soil, preferably in fall before the frost. Germination of seeds occurs in the spring, while bulbs may begin to sprout shortly after planting if conditions are favorable. The plant then enters a vegetative state where it produces long, strappy leaves and eventually sends up a sturdy stalk as it matures. Late spring to early summer marks the flowering stage, during which spherical clusters of small, star-shaped reddish-purple flowers bloom atop the stalks. After flowering, the plant sets seed, and the foliage begins to yellow and die back as the plant enters a period of dormancy, especially in regions with colder winters. The seeds can disperse to give rise to new plants, or the bulbs can remain dormant underground before re-sprouting the following growing season, completing the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
For Allium 'Red Eye', which is commonly referred to as ornamental onion, the most popular method of propagation is by dividing the bulbs. The best time to propagate by this method is in the fall after the foliage has died back or in the early spring before growth resumes. To propagate, carefully lift the clump of bulbs from the ground with a spade, ensuring minimal damage to the bulbs. Gently separate the clumps into individual bulbs, making sure that each division has a portion of the root system attached. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of three times their diameter (for a 2-inch diameter bulb, plant it 6 inches deep, which is roughly equivalent to planting a 5-centimeter diameter bulb 15 centimeters deep), and space them about 8-10 inches (20-25 centimeters) apart to ensure adequate room for growth. Water the newly planted bulbs to help establish them. This process will help maintain the vigor of the plant and encourage more prolific blooming in the subsequent season.
