Pregnant onion - Albuca bracteata (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Pregnant onion

Also known as: Sea-onion, German onion

Pregnant onion is a unique, easy to grow succulent houseplant. It gets its name from the babies that grow and swell from the bulbous base of the plant that resembles an onion. From the base of the pregnant onion grow long streamer-like leaves and in the spring it sends up tall spikes of greenish flowers.

Scientific classification

Species

Pregnant onion (Albuca bracteata)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Mid winter, Late winter, Early spring, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

90 cm

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Pregnant onion

Distribution of Pregnant onion

Distribution Map

Pregnant onion is indigenous to the southern part of the African continent. It has been introduced to other regions with a temperate climate, such as parts of North America and Oceania. Notably, pregnant onion has also been established outside of its natural range due to cultivation.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest, savanna

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Toxicity

Pregnant onion is mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Ingesting any part can cause gastrointestinal upset. The sap contains calcium oxalate crystals, which irritate the skin and digestive tract. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Wear gloves when handling and wash any contact areas promptly. Seek veterinary care if pets consume the plant.

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Care Guide for Pregnant onion

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Pregnant onion is a drought-tolerant plant from arid regions, thriving with minimal moisture. It performs best when watered biweekly, benefiting from well-draining soil to avoid root rot due to its sensitivity to overwatering.

Fertilize: Fertilize pregnant onion bi-weekly in spring and summer with diluted high nitrogen fertilizer, then monthly in fall, withholding in winter. Use half strength to prevent root burn, applying to moist soil. Adjust based on growth response; adequate feeding enhances vigor and bloom potential.

Pruning: Pregnant onion thrives with early to late spring pruning by removing dead foliage and trimming offshoots to enhance growth and aesthetics. Avoid cutting into the bulb to prevent damage. Proper timing of pruning promotes health, prevents disease, and ensures the longevity of pregnant onion.

Propagation: Pregnant onion propagates effectively via tubers in Spring. It requires easy to moderate care, and new growth signifies successful propagation. Patience is essential for tuber sprouting.

Repotting: Repot pregnant onion in spring before active growth, every 2-3 years. Select a pot slightly larger than the bulb for root expansion. After repotting, water sparingly and provide bright, indirect light to promote recovery. Unique bulblets make repotting a distinct care aspect.

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