Allium cristophii

Star of Persia
Persian Onion
Ornamental Onion


Deciduous Bulb / Corm / Tuber, Perennial

Outstanding Qualities
Allium cristophii was selected for its large starburst-like purple flowers that fade to a tawny silver as they dry. The dried seed heads hold up well in the summer garden adding an interesting structural element to later blooming perennials. These bulbs do well in sandy soils and dry locations and are completely drought tolerant.

Culture Notes
Ornamental onions grow best in full sun and sandy soil. It will tolerate clay soils if the location is sloped and water does not puddle in the winter. Leaves will grow through the late winter and spring, only dying back as the bulb begins to flower. Yellowing leaves can be trimmed to the ground or hidden among other plants. Bulbs can be planted in the fall.

—Courtesy Great Plant Picks

Growing Conditions

Zone: 5, 6, 7, 8

Exposure: Full Sun, Afternoon Sun, Reflected Heat

Water Needs: Drought-tolerant, Low, Occasional

Description

Size: 18 - 24 tall x 12 - 18 wide
Shape / Form: Irregular
Foliage Texture: Bold, Coarse
Foliage Quality: Bold, Coarse

Features: Attracts Bees, Attracts Butterflies, Flowers



Flower Color: Lavender / Lilac, Pink, Purple / Violet
Bloom Season: May, Jun, Spring
Flower Shape: Cluster, Sphere


Uses and Applications

Landscape Uses: Beds and Borders, Cutting Garden, Mixed Border
Special Situations: Deer Resistant, Low Water / No Water
Wildlife: Bees, Butterflies, Deer Resistant

More Design Considerations

Season of Interest: Spring, Summer
Position / Role: matrix / mingler
Collections: eGardenGo Favorite, Great Plant Pick

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Level: low

Plant Combos