Red Mohican Allium Allium amethystinum 'Red Mohican' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Allium amethystinum 'Red Mohican', commonly known as the Red Mohican allium, is an ornamental onion featuring distinctive blooms. The flower heads boast a unique shape, which resembles a mohawk haircut, hence its name. These blossoms are characterized by a cluster of star-shaped, reddish-purple florets that are tightly packed together, creating a dense, striking appearance. The flower heads often have a tuft of longer florets that grow at the top, giving them a somewhat punk, rebellious look. The sturdy stems supporting these striking flower heads are generally green, blending seamlessly into the plant's foliage. The leaves of the Red Mohican allium are usually strappy and glossy, with a deep green color that complements the vibrancy of the blooms. Their texture can be somewhat fleshy, a common trait among plants in this family. The foliage tends to form a clump at the base of the plant, setting an aesthetic foundation for the dramatic flowers that rise above. The Red Mohican allium blooms typically appear in the late spring to early summer, contributing bursts of color to gardens during this time. Its showy florets not only add visual interest but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a beneficial addition to any ecological garden setting. Though its dimensions are excluded from this description, the plant's bold blooms are the stand-out feature that leave a lasting visual impact.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Red Mohican Allium, Amethyst Allium, Ornamental Onion, Red Mohican.
Common names
Allium amethystinum 'Red Mohican' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Red Mohican ornamental onion is not known to be toxic to humans. However, eating large quantities of allium plants can cause digestive discomfort in some individuals. It's important to note that although it may not be highly toxic, it's still advisable to avoid ingesting ornamental plants due to the potential for adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Red Mohican ornamental onion can be toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. Allium species contain compounds that can be harmful to these animals if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and lethargy. In severe cases, ingestion may lead to damage to the red blood cells, which can cause anemia. If you suspect your pet has ingested this plant, it's important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.30 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Allium amethystinum 'Red Mohican' adds visual interest to gardens with its unique burgundy-red blooms that are arranged in an unusual crest-like formation, resembling a Mohican hairstyle.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, thus supporting the local ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow: This variety of allium is low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has good resistance to drought, reducing the need for frequent watering and making it ideal for xeriscaping.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: Its natural compounds make it unappealing to deer and rodents, protecting the garden from browsing and damage.
- Long-Lasting Blooms: Offers a long flowering period during late spring to early summer, providing lasting color in the garden.
- Cut Flowers: The striking flowers are suitable for cutting and can add an exotic touch to floral arrangements.
- Multiplication: It can propagate by self-seeding or bulb division, allowing gardeners to increase their stock or share with others.
- Structural Element in Garden Design: The distinct height and form of 'Red Mohican' can be used as a vertical accent in garden beds or borders.
- Winter Interest: The dried flower heads can remain on the plant, adding textural interest to the winter garden landscape.
- Companion Planting: Perfect for pairing with low-growing perennials or groundcovers, which can mask the allium's foliage as it dies back.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Allium amethystinum 'Red Mohican', also known as Red Mohican Allium, can be used as a natural dye source. The rich pigments of the flowers may be boiled to create a purple or reddish dye for textiles.
- These flowers can be crushed to create a natural insect repellent. The strong odor is unappealing to many insects.
- The sturdy stems of Red Mohican Allium can be used in basket weaving or as part of decorative wreaths once they have dried out.
- Gardeners can use the plant as a biological indicator because it can signal soil deficiencies when it fails to thrive properly.
- The flowers can be used in flower arranging classes as an example of a unique floral shape and design to inspire creativity.
- Photographers may use the vibrant Red Mohican Allium as a subject for macro photography practice due to the intricate details of the blooms.
- As a teaching tool in botany education, the plant can illustrate bulb growth and propagation strategies in gardening lectures.
- Dried Red Mohican Allium flower heads can serve as natural additions to potpourri mixes, providing color and a subtle fragrance.
- In art, dried or fresh specimens can be utilized for botanical drawing sessions, helping artists study and reproduce intricate flower structures.
- During outdoor events, such as garden parties or picnics, these plants can be used to create a themed ambiance due to their striking appearance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Red Mohican is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Red Mohican is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Strength: The robust and upright stance of the 'Red Mohican' allium demonstrates a symbol of strength and resilience, drawing similarities with its ability to stand tall amongst other plants.
- Unity: The clustered blooms of this allium variety represent unity and togetherness, suggesting the importance of solidarity and collective harmony.
- Prosperity and Abundance: Alliums are often associated with prosperity due to their lush, spherical flower heads, symbolizing fullness and wealth.
- Pride: The unique and striking appearance of the 'Red Mohican', with its tuft of blossoms atop a long stem, can be seen as a symbol of pride and confidence.
- Protection: Historically, alliums were thought to ward off evil spirits and are still considered a symbol of protection to safeguard against negativity.
- Good Fortune: Gifting 'Red Mohican' alliums can be an expression of bestowing good fortune and well wishes due to their vibrant and prolific nature.
WaterThe Red Mohican Allium should be watered deeply to ensure the water reaches the roots, but only when the soil feels dry to the touch; overwatering can cause the bulbs to rot. During the growing season, this usually means watering once every week or every two weeks, depending on climate conditions, with about 1 gallon of water per plant each time to maintain consistent soil moisture. During dormant periods, especially in winter, reduce watering significantly, only ensuring that the bulbs do not completely dry out.
LightThe Red Mohican Allium thrives in full sun conditions, meaning direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. It is best positioned in a spot where it can receive ample unfiltered sunlight throughout the day to ensure healthy growth and prolific blooming.
TemperatureRed Mohican Allium prefers a temperate climate and can tolerate a range of temperatures; ideally, it thrives between 50°F and 80°F. It is hardy and can withstand minimum temperatures down to around 20°F. Avoid exposing the plant to extreme heat above 90°F for prolonged periods, which can be detrimental to its health.
PruningPrune the Red Mohican Allium after flowering by deadheading spent blooms to encourage the bulbs to store energy for the next season rather than seed production. Cut back the foliage only after it has turned yellow and died back naturally, usually in late summer or early fall. This allows the plant to photosynthesize and gather energy for the next growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Red Mohican allium thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and compost to provide nutrients and proper drainage. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingRed Mohican alliums, being perennial bulbs, do not require frequent repotting. They should be repotted or divided every 3 to 4 years to ensure adequate space for growth and to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingRed Mohican allium prefers a moderate humidity level but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the dry air typical of most indoor environments. No specific humidity requirements are needed for this hardy plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Red Mohican allium near a sunny window and water moderately.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil; full sun. Water moderately.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleAllium amethystinum 'Red Mohican', commonly known as the red mohican allium, starts its life cycle as a bulb, which undergoes a period of dormancy typically during cold weather. In spring, the bulb breaks dormancy, sending up green shoots that develop into sturdy stems with strap-shaped leaves. By late spring to early summer, the plant produces distinctive flower spikes topped by dense umbels of star-shaped burgundy-red flowers. After blooming, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed by wind or animals, leading to potential new plants if conditions are favorable. Throughout the summer, the foliage of the plant begins to die back as the bulb enters a phase of senescence and preparation for the next dormant period. The cycle continues as the bulb overwinters in the soil, waiting for the next growing season to start the process again.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter to early spring
Allium amethystinum 'Red Mohican', also known as Ornamental Onion, is typically propagated through division, the most popular method for multiplying this plant. This process generally takes place during the plant's dormant period, often in the fall after the foliage has died back or in early spring before growth resumes. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of bulbs and gently separate them, ensuring that each section has at least one growth point or shoot. Replant the sections immediately at the same depth from which they were taken, typically 2-4 inches (about 5-10 cm) deep, spaced about 8 to 12 inches (approximately 20-30 cm) apart to give them room to grow. Water the new plantings thoroughly to settle the soil and help with root establishment.
