Allium stellatum

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Allium Stellatum Allium Stellatum 1 Allium Stellatum (4) Allium Stellatum (2) Allium Stellatum Allium Stellatum 2 Allium Stellatum 1
Allium Stellatum Allium Stellatum 1 Allium Stellatum (4) Allium Stellatum (2) Allium Stellatum Allium Stellatum 2 Allium Stellatum 1

Allium stellatum

Common Name: Prairie Onion

Allium stellatum, or Prairie Onion, is a perennial herb that reaches 8 to 18 inches in height. It features narrow, grass-like leaves and produces umbels of star-shaped, pink to lavender flowers from mid to late summer. This plant thrives in prairies, rocky outcrops, and dry fields, preferring well-drained, sandy or rocky soils. Historically, it was used by Native Americans for culinary and medicinal purposes. In landscaping, Prairie Onion is appreciated for its ornamental flowers and drought tolerance, making it suitable for rock gardens and xeriscaping.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant, Seed
Type Forb
Sun Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture Dry, Mesic
Average Max Height (inches) 15
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 10
Bloom month(s) July, August
Bloom Color or Type Varies
Dominance Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.