Species Hooker's Onion

Hooker's Onion

Allium acuminatum

Also Known As - Tapertip Onion
Hooker's Onion, also known as Allium acuminatum, is a perennial wildflower native to the Rocky Mountains and surrounding regions of western North America. This plant is quite hardy and can tolerate a variety of different climates and soils. The plant has long, curved stems that may grow up to three feet tall and bloom in late spring. The distinctively shaped flowers are clusters of white or light purple and are very attractive. The Hooker's Onion grows best in well-drained soil with plenty of water and sun. Its edible bulb has a pungent garlic-like flavor, making it a popular culinary choice in many dishes.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Bulb Propagation,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6

Flowers:

Purple|Pink Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Sand, Loam

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Hooker's Onion should be watered regularly and deeply, but be aware that it is susceptible to root rot if given too much water or water too frequently. In well-draining soil, they should be watered deeply every 7-10 days when the soil is dry or beginning to dry. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, but do not allow it to dry out completely. When temperatures reach above 90°F, water more often to prevent the bulb from wilting in the heat. When the foliage starts to die back, which typically occurs in late summer, reduce watering and let the soil dry out completely. This plant prefers a moist soil but soil that is not constantly wet.

sunlight

Hooker's Onion (Allium acuminatum) grows best in well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. In areas with hot summers, some afternoon shade is appreciated. This plant does best in 6-8 hours of direct sun per day. In cooler regions, however, full sun is preferable. With too little sunlight, these plants may become weak and susceptible to disease.

pruning

Hooker's Onion (Allium acuminatum) should be pruned shortly after flowering, usually in late spring or early summer. Pruning should be light, and should only remove dead or damaged stems. Pruning will help keep the plant from getting too unruly and will also help encourage new growth and flowering. Too much pruning may reduce flowering and cause the plant to become overgrown.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Hooker's Onion typically starts flowering in May.

Hardiness Map