Giant Garlic
allium commutatum
Also known as: ["Wild Garlic","Ornamental Onion"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its large, globe-shaped flower heads and pungent garlic-like aroma.
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 commutatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. Avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or foliage dieback.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pot for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse harsh light; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid waterlogged soil; amend heavy soil with grit.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold winters but requires a dry dormant period.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding in late summer.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or seed propagation. Division is faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide bulbs when dormant.
- Replant immediately at the correct depth.
- Water lightly.
- Protect from extreme conditions.
Best Time: Divide bulbs in late summer after foliage dies back. Sow seeds in autumn or early spring.
Environment
Warm, bright location with indirect light and moderate humidity for seeds; bulbs require a dry period after division.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite) for bulbs; standard seed-starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Not required for bulb division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Bulbs establish in 1–2 months; seeds may take 1–2 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, clean knife, labels, pots.
Quick Tips
Divide only when necessary; store bulbs in a cool, dry place if not planting immediately; thin seedlings as needed.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; cut foliage only after it has fully yellowed or browned.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Remove spent flower stalks to encourage bulb development. Trim yellowed foliage after it dies back naturally.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Remove dead or spent parts; sanitize tools; avoid cutting healthy foliage prematurely.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall after foliage dies back.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches if repotting in containers.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; remove old or damaged ones; replant at twice their diameter deep in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 3–4 years. Overcrowding can reduce flowering.
Checklist
Check for crowded bulbs; use fresh soil; ensure proper planting depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow excess to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter dormancy. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaves in excessive heat; stunted growth or rot in cold, wet conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures combined with wet soil can cause bulb rot or fungal infections. Growth may slow or cease during dormancy.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; mulch bulbs in cold climates; avoid overwatering during dormancy.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can scorch foliage, reduce flowering, and stress the plant if not accompanied by adequate water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; cease during dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as growth begins. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy. Dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength if used.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the organosulfur compounds in Allium commutatum, which can cause severe hemolytic anemia and other toxic effects. Even small amounts can be harmful, leading to significant health risks.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Allium commutatum can lead to hemolytic anemia due to the plant's organosulfur compounds, which damage red blood cells. This can result in serious health complications and requires prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAllium commutatum contains organosulfur compounds that can cause gastrointestinal irritation and other toxic effects upon ingestion. These compounds are responsible for the plant's characteristic pungent odor and taste, which can lead to discomfort and adverse physiological responses in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Allium commutatum edible?
A: While parts of the plant are edible and have a garlic-like flavor, consumption is not recommended due to potential toxicity.
Q: How should I care for Allium commutatum?
A: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Water moderately and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
Q: Does Allium commutatum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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