Oneleaf Onion

(Allium unifolium)

Oneleaf Onion (Allium unifolium)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Allium unifolium, commonly known as Oneleaf Onion, is a deciduous perennial herb native to the grasslands and open woodlands of California, particularly in the Coast Ranges. Contrary to its common name, it typically has 2-3 flat leaves that can reach up to 50 cm in length. The bulbs are usually solitary, egg-shaped, and up to 2 cm long, often forming at the end of rhizomes that spread out from the parent plant. The plant blooms from May to June, producing umbels of star-shaped flowers up to 15 mm across; the tepals are usually pink but can occasionally be white, with anthers that are yellow or purple, adding a subtle charm to the garden during its flowering season.

Oneleaf Onion is appreciated for its low maintenance and drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used in rock gardens, borders, and as an ornamental feature in pollinator-friendly gardens due to its attractive flowers which are known to attract bees and butterflies. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate part shade and prefers soils with medium drainage. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to onion white rot and other fungal diseases in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb, Bulb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 0.2-0.3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Grasslands and open woodlands of California, particularly in the Coast Ranges

Other Names

Common Names: American Garlic , One-Leaf Onion , Wild Onion , Einblättriger Lauch , Glanslök

Scientific Names: Allium unifolium , Allium grandisceptrum , Allium unifolium var. lacteum

GBIF Accepted Name: Allium unifolium Kellogg