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Hooker's Onion

Allium acuminatum

geophyte View on Calscape

Care

Sun

part shade

Water

moderate

Soil

Prefers sandy or loamy soils. Does not grow well in clay soils.

Size

1–1ft tall

Bloom

Jun-Aug

Deer

Resistant

Container

Friendly

Fragrant

Yes

Flowers

Prized

Edible

Bulbs eaten raw or cooked; traditional Indigenous food

Native Range

Interior valleys and foothills of northern and central California from the Sacramento Valley to the Diablo Range, 500-3000 ft elevation.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant Hooker's onion in well-draining sandy or loamy soil - avoid clay at all costs, as it will cause the bulbs to rot. Choose a spot with partial shade and space bulbs a few inches apart. Plant in fall or early spring to match the natural harvest timing of this Western native.

After Planting

Water moderately during the growing season, then back off as the leaves naturally die back in late spring. The #1 mistake is overwatering or planting in clay soil; this plant wants good drainage and will handle dry conditions once established. Expect flowers on tall stems in summer after the foliage has died, and don't be surprised when the plant goes dormant - that's exactly what it's supposed to do.

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