Spotted onion (Allium guttatum, Mém. Soc. Imp. Naturalistes Moscou 2: 173 (1809))

Family: Amaryllidaceae

Author: Steven

Bibliography: Mém. Soc. Imp. Naturalistes Moscou 2: 173 (1809)

Year: 1809

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Allium

Vegetable: False

Observations: Balkan Pen. to S. Ukraine and Türkiye

Description

The Spotted Onion, scientifically known as Allium guttatum, is a fascinating member of the Amaryllidaceae family. First described by the botanist Steven in 1809 within the works of the Mémoires de la Société Impériale des Naturalistes de Moscou, this species is notably recognized for its unique appearance and ecological adaptability.

Native to a broad range covering the Balkan Peninsula, Southern Ukraine, and Türkiye, the Spotted Onion thrives in diverse climatic zones, showcasing its resilience and ecological versatility. This plant is an essential component of its native flora, contributing to the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits.

Allium guttatum features distinctive spotted patterns on its bulbous structures, a characteristic that earns it the common name “Spotted Onion”. These patterns are not only a visual treat but also play a role in its identification among other Allium species. The flowering stalks rise elegantly, supporting umbels of small, star-shaped, white to pinkish flowers, which attract various pollinators, adding ecological value to its surroundings.

The Spotted Onion grows in well-drained soils, often found in rocky terrains and open fields. Its adaptability allows it to endure the different climatic conditions prevalent in its native regions. In addition to its ornamental appeal, Allium guttatum has been studied for its potential uses in traditional medicine, thanks to its bioactive compounds typical of the Allium genus.

Cultivating Allium guttatum in gardens outside its native range can bring an element of exotic beauty, as well as increase appreciation for the plant’s unique characteristics and its role in its native habitats. Gardeners who wish to grow Spotted Onions should mimic its natural growing conditions, ensuring ample sunlight and good drainage to mimic its home terrains of the Balkan Peninsula, Southern Ukraine, and Türkiye.

In summary, the Spotted Onion (Allium guttatum) stands out not only for its distinctive spotted bulbs and lovely flowers but also for its adaptability and ecological significance in its native regions. Its blend of aesthetic appeal and biological interest makes it a valuable plant both in the wild and in cultivated landscapes.

Common Names

En: Spotted Onion
El: Άλλιο το στικτόν
Ru: Лук крапчатый

Synonyms

• Allium margaritaceum var. typicum (Regel)
• Allium margaritaceum var. guttatum ((Steven) J.Gay)
• Allium margaritaceum subsp. guttatum ((Steven) Nyman)

Distribution

• Albania (native)
• Bulgaria (native)
• Cyprus (native)
• East Aegean Is. (native)
• Greece (native)
• Krym (native)
• Romania (native)
• Turkey (native)
• Ukraine (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Oct 8, 2021 by offline ad (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 3, 2022 by Мария Августовских (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 25, 2022 by F M (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 26, 2022 by maryam sani (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 15, 2022 by Blue Bottle (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2857922)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:528133-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Allium guttatum Steven)

Specifications

Growth