Tall Onion

(Allium altissimum)

Tall Onion (Allium altissimum)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 10" - 26"
High Temp. 71°F - 95°F
Low Temp. 11°F - 23°F

Summary

Allium altissimum, commonly known as tall onion, is a perennial herb that is native to the rocky slopes and steppe regions of Central Asia, including areas of Iran and Afghanistan. It can reach a height of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) and is characterized by its tall, sturdy stems and spherical clusters of star-shaped, purple flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators and add a vertical accent to garden beds.

The ’Goliath’ cultivar is renowned for its particularly large flower heads and robust growth, making it a striking addition to ornamental gardens. Tall onion is valued for its ease of maintenance and its ability to thrive in a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. It prefers full sun but can tolerate part shade. This plant is often used in borders, as a focal point in garden designs, or naturalized in meadow plantings. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to onion fly and thrips. Overly wet soils can lead to bulb rot, so proper drainage is crucial.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Rocky slopes and steppe regions

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Allium altissimum, Allium jesdianum var. latipetalum

GBIF Accepted Name: Allium altissimum