Northwest Blooms · Bulbs
Allium unifolium
One-leaf Onion
- Family
- Amaryllidaceae
- Height
- 12 to 18 inches
- Width
- 6 to 12 inches
- Flower color
- Pale pink to lavender, star-shaped clusters
- Foliage color
- Green, strap-like leaves
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate; prefers well-drained soil
- Maintenance
- Low; minimal care needed once established
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
About this plant
Allium unifolium, commonly known as one-leaf onion, produces delicate, star-shaped flowers in soft shades of pink to lavender. These blooms form loose clusters that appear in late spring to early summer, creating a charming display in garden beds and borders. The plant's name refers to its unique growth habit, where each bulb typically produces a single strap-like leaf alongside the flower stem.
Native to western North America, particularly California and Oregon, Allium unifolium thrives in a variety of habitats, including grasslands and open woodlands. Its adaptability and ornamental appeal make it a popular choice for naturalized gardens, rockeries, and pollinator-friendly landscapes. This species also performs well as a cut flower, adding a graceful touch to floral arrangements.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Under Trees · Containers · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Astilbes · Foxgloves · Bergenias · Sedums · Columbines · Lungworts
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Drift them in uneven groups for a natural look, and interplant with perennials that fill the gap after the leaves die back.
