angled onion
allium angulosum
Also known as: ["angled garlic","star grass"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial herbaceous plant with slender, angular stems and star-shaped flowers, native to Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Allium |
| Botanical Name: | Allium angulosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Loamy, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to tidy foliage.
- Pruning Intensity: Light.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pot for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense light; outdoor placement preferred.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water at the base to avoid foliage disease; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates cold winters; prefers moderate summer temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from extreme heat/cold; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after planting; stop in late summer; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide offsets from parent bulb.
- Plant at same depth.
- Water lightly.
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Divide bulbs in fall or spring; sow seeds in spring.
Environment
Warm, bright location with moderate humidity for seeds; outdoor conditions for bulbs.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with sand or perlite for bulbs; standard seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Not required for bulbs; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Bulbs establish in 1–2 seasons; seeds may take 1–2 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, pruners, pots, labels.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years; store seeds in cool, dry place; plant bulbs in groups for visual impact.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at base; remove yellowing leaves.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks to encourage bulb growth.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors.
Checklist
Remove deadheads; cut back only yellowed leaves; avoid cutting green foliage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Fall or early spring before active growth.
Pot Size
Use a pot 2–3 inches wider than the bulb cluster.
Method
Lift bulbs carefully; trim dead roots; replant at same depth in fresh soil.
Suggestions
Repot only if bulbs become overcrowded or soil degrades.
Checklist
Inspect roots; refresh soil; ensure proper drainage; space bulbs appropriately.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone without waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting in heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; bulbs can rot in waterlogged soil.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; mulch bulbs in winter; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Stunted growth; drooping foliage; reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during active growth; cease in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the organosulfur compounds in Allium angulosum, which can cause severe hemolytic anemia by damaging red blood cells. The toxicity can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Allium angulosum can lead to oxidative damage to red blood cells, resulting in hemolytic anemia. The organosulfur compounds disrupt red blood cell integrity, causing them to rupture prematurely.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAllium angulosum contains organosulfur compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. These compounds irritate the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Allium angulosum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How should I care for Allium angulosum?
A: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun; water moderately during growing season and reduce watering in winter.
Q: Does Allium angulosum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its star-shaped flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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