star of Persia

Allium christophii has flower heads that are among the largest ornamental onions.

Flowers lack fragrance, but the leaves and bulbs have an onion aroma when cut or bruised. When it’s finished blooming, the seed head of A. christophii can add a decorative interest to the garden or as a dried flower arrangement. This species of onion is native to Turkey, Iran, and Turkmenistan, although it is now grown as an ornamental bulbous plant in many parts of the world.

Here are some tips for planting bulbs! When you receive spring bulbs keep them in a dry, dark, cool place until ready to plant. They will need air circulation so that they don’t collect moisture and rot. Planting times can vary from early October in the North to mid-to-late November in the southern regions.

Botanical Name Allium christophii
Common Name star of Persia
Family Amaryllidaceae
USDA Zone 4 thru 8
Light Requirement Full Sun
Season(s) of interest all seasons
Height and Spread 1-2ft x 0.5-1.5 ft (30-60cm x 15-45cm)
Flower Color Purple
Attracts Wildlife Attracts Pollinators, Rarely Browsed by Mammalian Herbivores
Additional Information Not Native to the US Midwest. Native range: Iran, Turkey, Central Asia
Location in Lurie Garden East Meadow, West Meadow​

 

Average Flowering Time