ornamental onion (Allium 'Forelock') plant — close-up photo
Easy to grow

ornamental onion

Allium 'Forelock'

Overview

The ornamental onion (Allium 'Forelock') is an amazing plant for any garden. Its bright, vibrant spherical flowers in shades of purple, pink, and blue make a stunning sight, and it's also quite hardy, needing minimal care to produce a beautiful bloom. It's also a great choice for cut flowers; its bold color and special shape will add a unique and memorable touch to any bouquet. Plus, since it's a perennial plant, it will come back year after year, creating an eye catching display in the garden each time.

Care Guide

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Watering

Ornamental onion (Allium 'Forelock') should be watered deeply 1-2 times per week or when the soil is dry 1-2 inches below the surface. The soil should be well-draining as this plant does not tolerate soggy soil. Watering deeply helps to encourage healthy root growth. During summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering. In winter, the watering should be decreased, but the soil should never be allowed to dry completely.

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Light

Ornamental onion (Allium 'Forelock') is a perennial herb that grows best in full sun, though it will tolerate some light shade. Ornamental onion prefers long hours of sunlight, especially during the summer months when it is actively growing. For optimal growth, the plant should receive 6-10 hours of sunlight each day. During the winter, the plant should still receive some sunlight, even if it is reduced, as this will help it remain healthy.

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Temperature

Hardiness zone 4–8.

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Pruning

Ornamental onion (Allium 'Forelock') should be pruned once a year in late summer, just after it finishes blooming. Pruning should be done by cutting the foliage to the ground, and the flower stems to a few inches above the soil line. This will help keep the plant neat and tidy and promote new growth for the next season. Removing matured flowers throughout the season can also help keep the plant looking its best.

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Propagation

Division, Seed Propagation, Bulbils, Offsets

Uses & Symbolism

Attracts: Butterflies.

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