Pitted onion (Allium lacunosum)

Also known as: White fringed onion, Davis' pitted onion

The pitted onion features small, star-shaped flowers that range from white to pink, which form clusters at the top of slender, leafless stems. Its bulbs produce narrow, linear leaves that usually dry out before the plant flowers. This plant thrives in rocky, well-drained soils and is well-suited for arid environments, making the most of limited moisture with its modest height and clustered blooms.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Pitted onion

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10-30 cm

Spread

N/A

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

3-5 mm

Flower Color

White to Pink

Images of Pitted onion

Quickly Identify Pitted onion

Allium lacunosum can be identified by its small, white to pinkish flowers forming in an umbel, its thin and narrow leaves, and its habitat typically in rocky and grassy areas.

Scientific Classification of Pitted onion

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Asparagales

Family

Amaryllis

Genus

Onions

Species

Pitted onion

Planting and Growing of Pitted onion

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Pitted onion?

For Allium lacunosum, ensure the soil is moist but not soggy. Water sufficiently until approximately 150ml drains through the pot's bottom for each session. This ensures hydration without waterlogging.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Pitted onion? ›

What should I do if my Pitted onion is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Pitted onion? ›

How to save an overwatered Pitted onion? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Pitted onion?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Allium lacunosum flourishes with full sun, benefiting from 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. This exposure is key to its health, contributing to potent photosynthesis and abundant flowering.

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Pitted onion?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

To grow Allium lacunosum optimally, an ideal temperature range of 60°F to 75°F is recommended. This range allows for the best development of the plant's physiological processes and ensures vibrant growth and flowering.

What Soil is Best for Pitted onion?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Allium lacunosum thrives in well-draining soil which prevents root rot and ensures healthy growth. It benefits from a good balance of moisture and air, promoting root health. This plant requires a nutrient-rich medium to support its growth and flowering. Adequate organic matter enhances soil fertility, offering the essential nutrients the plant needs. While well-draining, the soil should retain enough moisture to sustain the plant between watering cycles. This balance prevents stress and encourages vibrant blooms.

How to Fertilize Pitted onion?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Allium lacunosum, a moderate amount of fertilizer is ideal. During active growth phases, apply a half-strength liquid fertilizer solution every two weeks. Ensure the soil is evenly moist to help absorb the nutrients efficiently.

How to Prune Pitted onion?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by observing the overall structure of your Allium lacunosum. Identify any dead or diseased foliage, which should be the first to be removed. This provides a healthier environment for new growth. Prune to shape the plant by selectively trimming wayward stalks that disrupt the plant's symmetry. Cut at a 45-degree angle above a node or leaf set to encourage healthy new growth. Once flowering is complete, trim back any spent flower stalks to direct the plant's energy toward bulb growth. This process is key for sustaining the plant's vitality. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Pitted onion plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring

Begin by collecting mature seeds from the Allium lacunosum plant or identify healthy bulbs for division. Ensure that seeds are dry and stored in a cool place before planting.

Use well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Fill seed trays or pots with the soil, and incorporate sand if necessary to improve drainage and aeration.

If using seeds, sow them evenly on the soil surface and lightly cover with a thin layer of soil. For division, carefully separate the bulbs and plant them at the same depth they were growing initially.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Pitted onion plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot your Allium lacunosum in spring when new growth emerges. Signals include roots poking out of drainage holes or soil compaction. This timing allows for maximum growth potential by taking advantage of the plant's natural growth cycle.

Select a pot with proper drainage and slightly larger than the current one. Ideally, it should be clay or terracotta to allow for breathability. A suitable pot prevents waterlogging and aids in healthy root development, providing the ideal conditions for robust growth.

Opt for a well-draining loamy soil mix containing organic matter. This choice ensures proper nutrient and moisture retention while preventing root rot. The right soil promotes the health and longevity of your plant, encouraging vigorous growth and flowering.