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Description
Allium Neapolitanum, also known as Naples garlic or white garlic, is a bulbous perennial native to the Mediterranean region. This plant belongs to the Allium genus, which comprises more than 900 species of onions, garlics, chives, and shallots. Allium Neapolitanum is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Allium |
Appearance
Allium Neapolitanum typically grows up to 12 inches tall and 6 inches wide. Its leaves are basal, linear, and up to 12 inches long. The flowers are borne in loose clusters atop leafless stems that can reach up to 15 inches tall. Each flower is star-shaped, white, and up to 1 inch in diameter. The bulbs are small, white, and clustered together.
Care Guide
Allium Neapolitanum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can cause the bulbs to rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the fall with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Allium Neapolitanum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in a sunny location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Allium Neapolitanum is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Allium Neapolitanum is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Onion thrips: These tiny insects can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Sclerotium rot: This fungal disease can cause the bulbs to rot. Remove and destroy infected plants and avoid planting in the same location for several years.
Habitat
Allium Neapolitanum is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in rocky hillsides, meadows, and scrublands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Allium Neapolitanum edible?
A: Allium Neapolitanum is not commonly used as a culinary herb, but its leaves and bulbs are edible and have a mild garlic flavor.
Q: How do I propagate Allium Neapolitanum?
A: Allium Neapolitanum can be propagated by dividing the bulbs in the fall or spring.
Q: Can Allium Neapolitanum grow in containers?
A: Yes, Allium Neapolitanum can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.
Q: How often should I fertilize Allium Neapolitanum?
A: Fertilize Allium Neapolitanum once a year in the fall with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Allium schoenoprasum (Chives)
- Allium sativum (Garlic)
- Allium cepa (Onion)
- Allium ampeloprasum (Elephant Garlic)
References
- “Allium neapolitanum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 18, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281869&isprofile=0&basic=allium%20neapolitanum.
- “Allium neapolitanum.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed May 18, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/allium-neapolitanum.
- “Allium.” Britannica. Accessed May 18, 2021. https://www.britannica.com/plant/Allium.
