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Description
Allium Mairei, also known as Maire’s Onion or Chinese Chives, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Allium genus. It is native to China, specifically in the provinces of Gansu, Qinghai, and Sichuan. The plant produces attractive pink or purple flowers that bloom from May to June, which can add a pop of color to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Allium |
Appearance
Allium Mairei can grow up to 30 to 40 cm in height and spreads up to 10 to 20 cm. Its leaves are thin, flat, and hollow, measuring around 15 to 30 cm in length and 2 to 4 mm in width. The flowers are pink or purple, measuring around 2 to 3 cm in diameter, and have a distinct onion-like scent. The plant’s bulbs are small, measuring around 1 to 2 cm in diameter, and have a brownish color.
Care Guide
Allium Mairei thrives in well-drained soil with full to partial sun exposure. It is a low maintenance plant that requires little watering, especially during the winter season when the soil is moist. It is best to plant the bulbs in the fall season at a depth of 5 to 10 cm and around 10 to 15 cm apart. Fertilize the plant annually with a balanced fertilizer during the spring season. The plant can withstand temperatures up to -29°C, making it hardy for zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Allium Mairei is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be prone to onion thrips, which can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. To prevent this, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as Botrytis and Fusarium, which can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Allium Mairei is native to China and can be found in the provinces of Gansu, Qinghai, and Sichuan. It grows in grasslands, meadows, and alpine regions at elevations of 2,800 to 4,200 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Allium Mairei edible?
A: Yes, the plant’s leaves and bulbs are edible and have a mild onion flavor.
Q: Can Allium Mairei be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as there is adequate drainage and sunlight.
Q: How often should Allium Mairei be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized annually during the spring season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Allium Mairei be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through bulb division in the fall season.
Related Plants
- Allium schoenoprasum (Chives)
- Allium sativum (Garlic)
- Allium tuberosum (Garlic Chives)
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/allium-mairei
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/allium/allium-mairei-growing.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a150
