Overview
Allium sharsmithiae (Ownby & Aase) McNeal is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Alliaceae family. This plant is endemic to California in the United States and can be found in only a few locations in the state.
Common Names
The common names for Allium sharsmithiae include Sharsmith's onion and Yosemite onion. These names allude to the plant's limited distribution in areas surrounding Yosemite National Park, where it was commonly discovered.
Appearance
The plant Allium sharsmithiae grows up to 40 centimeters tall from a bulb of about 2-3 cm in diameter. It has a single stem with numerous linear leaves that grow up to 15 centimeters in length. The inflorescence is composed of several olive-green to reddish-copper flowers, which vary in number from 5 to 25. Each flower measures about 12–16 mm across, and its tepals are lanceolate with pointed tips. The plant usually blooms in June and July.
Uses
Allium sharsmithiae has not been extensively used for medicinal or culinary purposes. However, it is of great interest to garden enthusiasts and plant collectors due to its distinctive appearance and rarity of occurrence. Some botanical gardens around the world cultivate Allium sharsmithiae for its ornamental value.
Light Requirements
Allium sharsmithiae is a sun-loving plant that requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for healthy growth. It can also grow well under partial shade, but too much shade can lead to stunted growth and weaker stems.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Allium sharsmithiae growth is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate some fluctuation in temperature, but extreme heat or cold can damage the plant. During the summer, it is important to provide sufficient water to the soil to help regulate the soil temperature.
Soil Requirements
Allium sharsmithiae can thrive in a wide range of soils as long as they are well-draining. It prefers slightly alkaline to neutral soils with pH levels between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and the addition of compost or aged manure can greatly benefit its growth. The plant can also benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied during active growth periods.
Cultivation
Allium sharsmithiae is a hardy perennial plant that can be grown in full sun or partially shaded areas. It prefers well-drained soil and is drought tolerant, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping. Plant the bulbs in the fall, about 3 inches deep and 6 inches apart. It is important to choose a location that is sheltered from strong winds, as the tall stems are prone to bending or breaking in exposed areas.
Watering Needs
Once established, Allium sharsmithiae requires minimal watering. The plant can tolerate drought conditions and is adapted to the dry, rocky soils of its native habitat. However, it is important to water regularly during the growing season to ensure healthy growth and flowering. Water deeply once a week or as needed, taking care not to overwater as the bulbs can rot if left in standing water for prolonged periods.
Fertilization
Allium sharsmithiae does not require heavy fertilization, as the bulbs are self-sufficient and can draw nutrients from the surrounding soil. However, adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting can promote healthy growth and improve soil structure. Top-dressing with a balanced fertilizer in the spring can also provide a nutritional boost.
Pruning
Allium sharsmithiae does not require pruning, as the faded flower heads will dry out and fall off on their own. However, if you wish to remove the spent blooms for aesthetic reasons, wait until the stems have turned yellow or brown and then cut them off at the base. Avoid cutting back the foliage until it has died back naturally, as this will allow the bulbs to store nutrients for the following year's growth.
Propagation of Allium sharsmithiae
Allium sharsmithiae (commonly known as Sharsmith's onion) is a perennial plant species in the Amaryllidaceae family that is endemic to California. It has a small, compact size and is an ideal plant for rock gardens or as a ground cover. Propagation of Allium sharsmithiae can be done through three primary methods: seeds, division, and bulbils.
Propagation through seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common method of propagating Allium sharsmithiae. Wait until the blooms have faded, and the seedpods have fully matured, and the seeds are brown in color before harvesting. Sow the seeds into prepared soil outdoors in the fall. The soil should be well-drained and kept moist until germination, which typically takes between three to four weeks. Transplant the seedlings into their permanent location once they are large enough to handle and have developed their first set of leaves.
Propagation through division
Propagation of Allium sharsmithiae through division is an effective method to propagate established plants. The best time for division is in the fall, after the foliage has died back. Dig the entire clump of the plant and gently separate it into smaller pieces, ensuring that each piece has roots and shoots. Replant the divided pieces immediately in their permanent location in well-draining soil. Water thoroughly to help the roots establish.
Propagation through bulbils
Allium sharsmithiae produces small bulbils at the base of the mother bulb during the summer months. These bulbils can be harvested in the fall and planted directly into well-draining soil or placed in a seed tray filled with soil. The bulbils will develop into small bulbs that can be transplanted once they have developed enough roots and tops.
Overall, Allium sharsmithiae is an easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated through seeds, division, and bulbils. With proper care, this plant can thrive and add beauty to any garden.
Disease Management
Allium sharsmithiae is susceptible to various diseases that could affect its growth and productivity. The common diseases of Allium sharsmithiae include Fusarium basal rot, white rot, and downy mildew.
Fusarium basal rot is a fungal disease that affects the base of Allium sharsmithiae, causing it to rot and leading to wilting of the leaves. It is usually caused by poor soil drainage and can be managed by improving soil drainage and avoiding overwatering.
White rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of Allium sharsmithiae, causing them to become soft and mushy. It is usually caused by contaminated soil and can be managed by rotating crops, avoiding replanting in the same soil, and maintaining proper soil hygiene.
Downy mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Allium sharsmithiae, causing them to turn yellow and wilt. It thrives in cool and moist weather conditions and can be managed by maintaining proper air circulation, avoiding high humidity, and removing and destroying affected leaves and plants.
Pest Management
Allium sharsmithiae is also susceptible to various pests that could cause damage to its leaves and bulbs. The common pests of Allium sharsmithiae include onion maggots and thrips.
Onion maggots are small white maggots that feed on the bulbs of Allium sharsmithiae, causing them to decay and rot. It is usually caused by contaminated soil and can be managed by applying insecticides, maintaining proper soil hygiene, and avoiding over-fertilization.
Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on the leaves of Allium sharsmithiae, causing them to become distorted and discolored. They thrive in hot and dry weather conditions and can be managed by applying insecticides, maintaining proper soil moisture levels, and avoiding overcrowding of plants.
