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(Allium haematochiton)
Redskin Onion (Allium haematochiton)
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Joe Decruyenaere
CC BY-SA 2.0
Image By:
Joe Decruyenaere
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Joe Decruyenaere | License Type: CC BY-SA 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/ | Uploader: joedecruyenaere | Publisher: Flickr
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Allium haematochiton, commonly known as redskin onion, is a perennial herb native to chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands in southern California, northern Baja California, and Sonora. It is often found on dry, rocky slopes and in open areas within these ecosystems. This species typically forms small clumps reaching up to 12 inches in height and width. The plant features a small rhizome with clusters of red bulbs and several green stems that bear narrow, curling leaves. From late winter to early spring, it produces an inflorescence of attractive white to pinkish flowers with dark midveins, which are particularly showy when massed.
Redskin onion is valued for its drought tolerance and ornamental flowers, making it suitable for rock gardens, native plant gardens, and xeriscaping. It thrives in full sun to part shade and requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or rocky. While it is low maintenance, it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. In cultivation, it can be used to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. There are no major disease or pest problems associated with this plant, but it is important to avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Redskin onion is valued for its drought tolerance and ornamental flowers, making it suitable for rock gardens, native plant gardens, and xeriscaping. It thrives in full sun to part shade and requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or rocky. While it is low maintenance, it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. In cultivation, it can be used to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. There are no major disease or pest problems associated with this plant, but it is important to avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb, Bulb
- Height: 1-1.5 feet
- Width: 0.5-1 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Red, White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Very Low
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden
Natural Habitat
Native to chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands
Other Names
Common Names: Blood Onion
Scientific Names: , Allium haematochiton, Allium californicum, Allium marvinii,
GBIF Accepted Name: