Welsh onion, bunching onion, scallion
allium fistulosum
Also known as: ["Japanese bunching onion","spring onion"]
Overview
A perennial plant in the Allium genus, valued for its hollow, cylindrical leaves and mild onion flavor.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Monocotyledonae |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Allium |
| Botanical Name: | Allium fistulosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically after flowering or when foliage looks untidy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in cooler climates; partial shade in hot regions to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak summer heat; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage disease; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust for weather conditions.
Soil
well-drained, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is loose and airy; avoid compacted soil; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates frost but struggles in extreme heat.
Protect from extreme heat; shield from frost; maintain consistent temperatures for steady growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn; use organic options for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or root cuttings; seeds can also be used but take longer to mature.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate bulbs/divisions.
- Plant in prepared medium.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when temperatures are mild and plants are not in active heat stress.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone can aid root cuttings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; root cuttings: roots in 2–4 weeks, mature plant in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, trowel, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Divide bulbs when overcrowded; use clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp scissors; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth.
Tools
Sharp scissors or pruning shears, disinfectant (optional).
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged leaves; sanitize tools; prune close to the base; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins; avoid repotting during extreme heat or cold.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for bulb division.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid foliage wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves in heat; stunted growth in cold; wilting or browning in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; roots can become less efficient in absorbing water.
Solution: Mulch around the base for insulation; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or bolt prematurely; growth can become sparse.
Solution: Provide partial shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to Allium species, including Allium fistulosum. Ingestion can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia. Even small amounts can be harmful to cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, excessive ingestion of Allium fistulosum can lead to oxidative damage to red blood cells, resulting in hemolytic anemia. The toxicity is dose-dependent and more severe in smaller breeds or those with pre-existing health conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicAllium fistulosum, commonly known as Welsh onion, contains compounds like thiosulfates and disulfides that can cause oxidative damage to red blood cells when consumed in excessive amounts. This can lead to hemolytic anemia, particularly in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Allium fistulosum the same as a regular onion?
A: No, Allium fistulosum is a distinct species, though closely related to onions.
Q: Can I grow this plant indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors with adequate sunlight and proper care.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in large quantities.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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