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Description
Allium Cratericola, also known as Crater Lake Onion, is a species of flowering plant in the Amaryllis family. It is native to the western United States, specifically in the area surrounding Crater Lake in southern Oregon. This plant grows in meadows and rocky slopes at elevations of 5,000 to 8,000 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Allium |
Appearance
Allium Cratericola has grass-like leaves that are blue-green in color and grow up to 12 inches long. The plant produces a single, tall stem that can reach up to 36 inches in height. At the top of the stem, a cluster of pink to purple flowers bloom in the summer. Each flower is composed of six petals and six stamens.
Care Guide
To care for Allium Cratericola, it is important to provide adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and consider its hardiness zones. This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and rich in organic matter. It requires moderate watering, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.Allium Cratericola thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers cooler temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Allium Cratericola is generally resilient and not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to onion maggots and thrips. To prevent these pests, keep the soil well-draining and avoid overwatering. In addition, remove any dead plant material from the garden to prevent fungal diseases.
Habitat
Allium Cratericola is native to the western United States and is commonly found in meadows and rocky slopes surrounding Crater Lake in southern Oregon. It grows at elevations of 5,000 to 8,000 feet and prefers cool, moist conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Allium Cratericola be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Allium Cratericola can be grown in containers as long as they are deep enough to accommodate the long roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize Allium Cratericola?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Allium Cratericola?
A: Allium Cratericola is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Q: How often should I water Allium Cratericola?
A: This plant prefers moderate watering, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
Related Plants
- Allium canadense
- Allium cernuum
- Allium schoenoprasum
- Allium stellatum
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Allium cratericola. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ALCR5
- Crater Lake Institute. (n.d.). Crater Lake Onion. Retrieved from https://www.craterlakeinstitute.com/plants/plant-families/amaryllidaceae-allium/allium-cratericola/
