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Description
Allium Microdictyon, commonly known as the Swollen Onion, is a bulbous perennial plant that belongs to the Alliaceae family. It is native to the western United States and can be found in California, Oregon, and Nevada. This plant grows up to 2 feet tall and produces a single stem with a cluster of flowers at the top. The flowers are purple and star-shaped, and they bloom in the late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Alliaceae |
| Genus | Allium |
Appearance
The Swollen Onion has a unique appearance with a bulbous stem that is covered in papery layers. The stem is topped with a cluster of purple star-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The leaves are narrow and grass-like and grow up to 2 feet tall. The bulb of the plant is edible and has a mild onion flavor.
Care Guide
Allium Microdictyon is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to ensure your Swollen Onion thrives:- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the dormant season.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Plant the Swollen Onion in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Allium Microdictyon is hardy in USDA zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Swollen Onion is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to onion thrips and bulb rot if not cared for properly. To prevent thrips, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized. To prevent bulb rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering.
Habitat
Allium Microdictyon is native to the western United States and can be found in California, Oregon, and Nevada. It grows in dry, rocky areas and is often found in open grasslands and chaparral habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I eat the bulb of the Swollen Onion?
A: Yes, the bulb of the plant is edible and has a mild onion flavor.
Q: How often should I water my Swollen Onion?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Q: Is the Swollen Onion hardy in all climates?
A: No, the plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-10 and may not survive in colder climates.
Q: Can I grow Allium Microdictyon in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight.
Related Plants
– Allium cepa (Onion)- Allium sativum (Garlic)- Allium schoenoprasum (Chives)- Allium tricoccum (Wild Leek)
References
– “Allium Microdictyon.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j570.- “Allium Microdictyon.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:527401-1.
