What are the sun requirements for Allium cepa 'Red Creole'?

Allium cepa 'Red Creole' requires full sun.

How much water does Allium cepa 'Red Creole' need?

Allium cepa 'Red Creole' has moderate, reduce as bulbs mature water needs.

Annuals

Allium cepa 'Red Creole'

Red Creole Onion

UnknownAsia

At a Glance

Typeannual

Habitupright

Foliagedeciduous

Height18-24 inches

Width6-8 inches

Key Features

Deer Resistant

Fragrant (strong)

Container Friendly

Maintenancelow

Overview

Allium cepa 'Red Creole' is a distinctive short-day storage onion cultivar prized for its exceptional heat tolerance and deep red coloration. This heirloom variety produces medium to large flattened-globe bulbs measuring 3-4 inches in diameter, distinguished by their rich mahogany-red to deep purple outer scales that protect crisp white flesh marked with purple-tinged rings. The plant develops hollow, blue-green tubular leaves that emerge directly from the bulb base, reaching 18-24 inches in height with a characteristic onion aroma when bruised. The foliage is cylindrical and tapered, creating an upright fountain-like appearance in the garden. When allowed to bolt, Allium cepa 'Red Creole' produces tall, hollow flower stalks topped with spherical umbels of small white flowers, though these are typically removed to promote bulb development. This cultivar is particularly valued for its pungent, sharp flavor that intensifies during storage and its remarkable ability to thrive in hot, humid climates where other onion varieties often fail to form proper bulbs.

Native Range

Allium cepa originates from the mountainous regions of Central Asia, particularly Afghanistan, Pakistan, and surrounding areas of the Hindu Kush and Pamir mountain ranges. The species has been cultivated for over 5,000 years, spreading from its native habitat through ancient trade routes to become one of the world's most widely grown vegetables. The 'Red Creole' cultivar was developed in Louisiana and adapted specifically for cultivation in hot, humid southern climates.

Suggested Uses

Allium cepa 'Red Creole' excels in vegetable gardens, raised beds, and container cultivation where its compact growth habit and attractive foliage provide ornamental value alongside food production. The strong, pungent flavor makes it ideal for cooking applications requiring robust onion taste, while the striking red color adds visual appeal to fresh preparations and garnishes. This cultivar is particularly valuable for gardeners in hot, humid climates where it serves as a reliable storage onion when other varieties fail to bulb properly. Excellent for succession planting and companion planting with heat-loving vegetables.

How to Identify

Allium cepa 'Red Creole' can be readily identified by its distinctive deep red-purple to mahogany-colored bulb skin that sets it apart from yellow or white onion varieties. The bulbs have a characteristic flattened-globe shape rather than being perfectly spherical, with papery outer scales in rich reddish-brown tones. The hollow, blue-green leaves are cylindrical and emerge directly from the bulb base without branching. When cut, the white flesh reveals purple-tinged rings between the concentric layers, and the strong, pungent aroma is notably more intense than sweet onion varieties. The dry outer scales have a distinctive papery texture with deep burgundy to mahogany coloration that extends several layers into the bulb.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height1'6" - 2'

Width/Spread6" - 8"

Colors

Flower Colors

white

Foliage Colors

blue

green

Fall Foliage Colors

yellow

Bloom Information

Bloom Period

SummerFall

late summer if allowed to bolt

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

small white flowers in spherical umbels

Foliage Description

blue-green, hollow and tubular

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

Full Sun

• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight

• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight

• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight

Soil Requirements

pH Range6.0 - 7.0(Neutral)

357912

Drainage

well drained

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate, reduce as bulbs mature

Frost Tolerance

hardy

Time to Maturity

110-120 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Allium cepa 'Red Creole' requires consistent moisture during active growth but benefits from reduced watering as bulbs approach maturity and foliage begins to yellow. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting, then switch to a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus formula mid-season to promote bulb development rather than excessive foliage growth. Maintain weed-free conditions throughout the growing season, as onions compete poorly with weeds due to their shallow root system. Hill soil gently around developing bulbs to encourage proper formation, but avoid covering the neck area completely. Cease watering when the tops naturally begin to fall over, indicating physiological maturity and readiness for harvest.

Pruning

Allium cepa 'Red Creole' requires minimal pruning during the growing season, with the primary concern being the removal of flower stalks (scapes) that may appear, especially during stress periods. Cut these flowering shoots at the base to redirect the plant's energy into bulb development rather than seed production. Resist the temptation to cut back foliage prematurely, as the leaves are essential for photosynthesis and bulb development until they naturally begin to yellow and collapse. After harvest, cure the bulbs in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks, leaving the dried tops attached until ready for final trimming and storage.

Maintenance Level

low

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Allium cepa 'Red Creole' is safe for human consumption when prepared normally, whether raw or cooked. However, onions contain compounds that are toxic to dogs, cats, and other pets, potentially causing oxidative damage to red blood cells and leading to hemolytic anemia. The sulfur compounds responsible for the plant's pungent flavor can cause eye and skin irritation during handling and preparation. Some individuals may experience digestive upset from consuming raw onions in large quantities, and those with specific food sensitivities should exercise appropriate caution.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

both

Indoor Start

10 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

early spring, 4-6 weeks before last frost

Days to Maturity

110–120 days

Plant Spacing

4 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

carrots

tomatoes

peppers

brassicas

lettuce

Avoid Planting With

beans

peas

asparagus

sage