Contents
Description
Allium Sphaerocephalon, commonly known as Drumstick Allium, is a perennial bulbous plant belonging to the onion family. The plant produces an egg-shaped flower head atop a slender stem that can grow up to 60 cm tall. The flower head is composed of numerous small, tightly packed, deep pink to purple florets, which bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Allium |
Appearance
The Drumstick Allium has narrow, grass-like leaves that are blue-green in color and grow up to 30 cm long. The flower heads are about 5 cm in diameter and bloom in a dense, oval shape. The florets are small, approximately 1 cm in diameter, and are a striking deep pink to purple color. The plant prefers well-draining soil and is hardy in zones 4 to 8.
Care Guide
Drumstick Alliums prefer full sun to partial shade and require well-draining soil. They can withstand drought conditions and do not require frequent watering. Adding a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth. The plant is hardy and can survive harsh winters in zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Drumstick Alliums are relatively disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. They may also attract onion thrips, which can cause the leaves to turn brown and wilt. Treating with insecticidal soap can help control thrips.
Habitat
The Drumstick Allium is native to Europe and Asia and grows in meadows, woodland edges, and rocky hillsides. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: When do Drumstick Alliums bloom?
A: Drumstick Alliums bloom from late spring to early summer.
Q: What is the color of the Drumstick Allium flower?
A: The flower is a deep pink to purple color.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Drumstick Allium?
A: The plant is hardy in zones 4 to 8.
Q: What is the scientific name for Drumstick Allium?
A: The scientific name for Drumstick Allium is Allium Sphaerocephalon.
Related Plants
- Allium Atropurpureum
- Allium Globemaster
- Allium Moly
- Allium Schubertii
References
- “Allium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276368&isprofile=0&basic=Allium. Accessed 15 May 2021.
- “Allium Sphaerocephalon.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19222/Allium-sphaerocephalon/Details. Accessed 15 May 2021.
- “Allium Sphaerocephalon (Drumstick Allium).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/allium-sphaerocephalon. Accessed 15 May 2021.
