Red Sierra Onion
Allium obtusum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, NV
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Red sierra onion is a compact native bulb that produces small clusters of pink to reddish flowers on short stems in late spring and early summer. This drought-tolerant perennial goes dormant in summer heat and returns each spring from underground bulbs.
In an HOA neighborhood
Red Sierra Onion takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Disappears completely when dormant in summer
- Very small size makes it appear sparse in formal settings
- Can look like wild onion or weeds to untrained eyes
Wildlife value
The nectar-rich flowers attract native bees and butterflies during the late spring blooming period. The bulbs provide food for some wildlife species.
Common questions
- How much sun does Red Sierra Onion need?
- Red Sierra Onion grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Red Sierra Onion bloom?
- Red Sierra Onion blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Red Sierra Onion native?
- Red Sierra Onion (Allium obtusum) is native to CA, NV, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Red Sierra Onion attract?
- Red Sierra Onion draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Red Sierra Onion HOA-friendly?
- Red Sierra Onion takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Red Sierra Onion? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz