Species

Allium cepaOnion

5 other cultivars

bulb corm tuber

Cipollini Onion

Allium cepa 'Cipollini Borrettana'

The Story

Plant Bio

Cipollini Borrettana is a specialty onion known for its flat shape, sweet flavor, and tender texture, making it ideal for grilling and roasting.

This cultivar has exceptionally high sugar content, giving it a sweeter taste compared to traditional onions.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds a charming, edible touch to flower beds with its white, star-shaped flowers.

Produces sweet, mild onions perfect for culinary uses.

Supports pollinators like bees during flowering season.

SpeciesAllium cepaOnion

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

12 inches

Width

6 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Biennial, grown as an annual

Native To

Mediterranean

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs and cats

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 2 inches deep in well-draining soil in early fall.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Allow foliage to yellow naturally for bulb energy storage.
Divide bulbs every 3-4 years in late summer or early fall.
Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvest when the tops yellow and begin to fall over.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun and ensure soil is well-draining for best bulb development.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during active growth 🌱
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Overwater to prevent bulb rot ❌
Plant too deep or too shallow
Neglect to remove spent foliage

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vanilla‑scented borderEdible flower bedOrnamental bulb garden

Companion Plants

Carrots Lettuce Beets Tomatoes

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cipollini Onion questions

What zones can Cipollini Onion grow in?

Cipollini Onion is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cipollini Onion deer resistant?

Yes — Cipollini Onion is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Cipollini Onion bloom?

Cipollini Onion typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cipollini Onion need full sun?

Cipollini Onion does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.