Pregnant Onion
Albuca bracteata
3.5-inch pot
 
An unusual South African bulb grown for its large, glossy green, onion-like bulb that sits mostly above the soil. Numerous small bulblets develop around the mother bulb, giving the plant its memorable common name. Long, arching, strap-like leaves emerge from the bulb, followed by tall flower stalks carrying many small white flowers striped with green.
 
Despite its appearance, Pregnant Onion is not a true onion and is not edible. In our climate it is best treated as a tender container or houseplant and protected from frost. Give it bright light and excellent drainage, allowing the soil to dry somewhat between waterings. The easily removed bulblets make it especially fun and simple to propagate.
 
Tender bulbous perennial (Houseplant in the PNW)
Zones 9–11
Full sun to part shade
Leaves grow to 2 ft. long; flower stalks can reach 3–5 ft.
Low to moderate water needs; requires well-drained soil
Produces numerous easily propagated bulblets
White and green flowers, primarily spring through fall