How to identify Persian onion (Allium cristophii)
Persian onion stands as an impressive plant reaching heights of 1-2 feet (30-60 cm). It boasts the largest flower cluster among its kin, a striking array of silvery lavender blossoms that make their appearance in late spring. Each cluster serves as a visual spectacle with a star-like quality, lending an ornamental aspect to gardens. The plant endures dry summer spells but thrives with sufficient moisture in the growing season. After the flat, strap-like foliage withers, persian onion continues to captivate onlookers with its lasting, dried flower heads that persist, offering a continued display into the later season.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Herb
Leaf Type: Deciduous
Large spherical flower clusters, 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) in diameter.
Distinctive star-shaped flowers with pale lavender petals.
Flat, strap-like leaves emitting onion or garlic smell when bruised.
Smooth, leafless stems reaching up to 2 feet (60 cm) in height.
Three-dimensional, star-shaped fruit capsules with glossy black seeds.
The leaves of persian onion are flat, strap-like, and form a basal rosette. They can reach up to 20 inches (50 cm) in length and are about 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide. The leaves begin withering before the plant's blooming stage. When bruised, they emit a distinctive onion or garlic smell, aiding in plant identification.
Persian onion produces large, spherical clusters of flowers measuring 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) in diameter. Each cluster contains numerous star-shaped flowers with pale lavender petals, appearing at the top of a leafless stem in late spring to early summer. The flowers have a distinct arrangement, forming a dense, globe-like structure, and lack a noticeable scent. The prominent, showy blooms are key identifiers of this species, making it a striking addition to gardens.
The stems of persian onion are smooth, green, and leafless, offering a clean and unblemished appearance. They are typically cylindrical and sturdy, reaching heights of up to 2 feet (60 cm). The texture is uniformly smooth with no visible branching, maintaining a singular upward growth pattern. The color remains consistently bright green, which contrasts beautifully against the plant's vibrant flowers. This combination of smooth texture and bright hue is characteristic and distinguishes the stems of persian onion.
The fruit of persian onion is a three-dimensional, star-shaped capsule harbouring black seeds. Upon maturation, these capsules exhibit a textured, typically dry, and papery exterior. Each capsule can vary in size, but they consistently display a characteristic geometric form that is eye-catching. The seeds nestled within are glossy black and are encased until the fruit dehisces, or naturally splits open, to release them. The visual contrast between the pale capsule and the dark seeds is striking, making it easier to spot when the fruit has opened.
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Scientific Classification of Persian onion
