Climbing Onion (Bowiea volubilis)

Climbing Onion

Bowiea volubilis

Its bulb swells like a living storage jar, climbing tendrils reaching for light. Succulent climbing perennial; common name: Climbing Onion.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light with limited morning sun; avoid harsh midday direct sun to prevent stem scorching
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot
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Temperature Thrives at 15–25°C; protect from frost and keep above 10°C during winter dormancy
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Characteristics

  • Bulb: Large, fleshy, pale green to brown, partially exposed above soil
  • Stem: Thin, twining, green tendril-like stems with reduced scale leaves
  • Flower: Small, star-shaped, greenish-white, clustered in loose racemes
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when top 5 cm of soil is fully dry; avoid wetting the bulb directly

Fertilization

Diluted low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer once monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent weak, leggy stem growth

Eggshell powder top dressing:Sprinkle a thin layer of crushed, dried eggshells on soil surface; avoid direct contact with the bulb to prevent irritation
Pruning
  • Trim dead or yellowing tendrils to maintain a tidy appearance
  • Remove soft, discolored sections of the bulb immediately to stop rot spread
  • Cut back overgrown stems in late spring before the plant enters dormancy
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to steroidal saponins; causes vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and lethargy

Humans: Ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal upset; contact may cause minor skin irritation

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for hanging baskets or trellis displays