Plant Profile

ShallotAllium ascalonicum

The shallot (Allium ascalonicum) is a popular bulb vegetable appreciated for its fine, mild aroma. It is closely related to the common onion and is used as both a food and an aromatic vegetable. Shallots are relatively easy to grow and are well-suited for cultivation in gardens, on balconies, and in raised beds. They prefer a sunny location and well-draining, humus-rich soil. Sowing takes place directly outdoors in spring, with harvest in summer. With good care, shallots can be stored for several months.

AlliumsBulb and tuber vegetablesAmaryllis family
Calendar
Shallot (Allium ascalonicum): plant portrait - Alliums, Amaryllis family, Harvest July - August
Shallot: plant portrait. harvest: July - August.

Quick profile

Key data

Growing calendar
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Direct sowing outdoors
Planting outdoors
Harvest
Direct sowing outdoorsPlanting outdoorsHarvest

Suitable growing locations:

Outdoor garden bedRaised bedContainerBalcony

Good neighbors

CarrotLettuceStrawberryHerbs (e.g., Parsley, Dill)

Avoid

CabbageBeanPea

Indoor & direct sowing

Shallot: Sowing and germination

Indoor sowing

Shallots are generally not started indoors.

Direct sowing outdoors

Direct sowing is possible as soon as the soil is workable and no hard frosts are expected.

Seed depth1 - 2 cm
Germination temp10 - 18 °C
Germination time10 - 20 days
Light germinatorNo
Dark germinatorYes
Cold germinatorNo
Stratification neededNo
Pre-soaking recommendedNo

Planting & site

Shallot: Planting and spacing

Planting outdoors

Seedlings or pre-grown plants can be transplanted outdoors after the last frosts.

Soil pH6 - 7.5
Plant spacing10 - 15 cm
Row spacing20 - 30 cm
Plants per m²30 - 50 per m²
Bed widthfrom 60 cm

Site & practical notes

Title: Site Selection, Content: Choose a sunny, wind-sheltered spot with loose, well-draining soil. Absolutely avoid waterlogging.Title: Sowing/Planting, Content: Sow directly outdoors in spring (March-April) or plant small bulbs/sets. Spacing approx. 10-15 cm in the row, 20-30 cm between rows.Title: Care, Content: Regularly hoe and remove weeds. Water during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging. Fertilize only if necessary with organic fertilizer.Title: Harvest, Content: When the leaves wither (July-August), carefully pull the shallots from the soil.Title: Drying and Storage, Content: Let the harvested shallots dry in an airy, dry place until the necks are dry. Store cool, dark, and well-ventilated.Title: Companion Planting, Content: Good neighbors include carrots, lettuce, strawberries, and herbs. Avoid cabbage and beans.Title: Pest and Disease Prevention, Content: Strict crop rotation (at least 3-4 years break after other Allium species). Healthy plants and good hygiene are important.

Temperature & frost

Shallot: Temperature and site

Growing temperaturefrom 7 °C
Optimal temperature15 - 22 °C
Max. heatup to 30 °C
Soil temperature7 - 12 °C
Frost sensitiveNo
Late frost sensitiveNo
Heat tolerancemedium
Cold tolerancemedium

Water & nutrients

Shallot: Water, nutrients and care

Watermedium
Critical water phasesGrowth phase, Bulb formation
Watering methodWater at the base
Droughtmedium
Waterlogging sensitiveYes
Mulching recommendedYes
Nutrient needmedium feeder
Compost recommendedYes
Fertilizer sensitivitylow

Container & growth

Shallot: Container, support and growth

Container suitableYes
Pot sizeVolume: from 10 l; Recommended: from 20 l; Diameter: from 30 cm; Depth: from 20 cm
SupportNo
Height20 - 30 cm
Width10 - 15 cm
Root depth15 - 25 cm
Yield0.1 - 0.2 kg

Year plan

Shallot Calendar

Plants

Spring is the ideal time for sowing and planting to ensure a bountiful harvest in summer.

Year overview
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Direct sowing outdoors
Planting outdoors
Harvest

Relevant now

June

  • Continue weeding and watering as needed.Ensure good air circulation around the plants.
  • Watch for pests like the onion fly.Cultural practices like mulching can help.

Next up

July

  • Stop fertilizing.This promotes bulb maturation.
  • Water as needed until leaves begin to wither.Trockenheit: Reduce watering towards the end of the growing period.

Monthly tasks

Single tasks from monthly data; repeated seasonal windows are shown in the overview above.

PlantingHarvestGrowingPlant health

January

Quiet month

February

Quiet month

March

Sow directly outdoors or plant pre-grown shallots.Prepare soil, loosen, and weed.

Planting

  • Sow directly outdoors or plant pre-grown shallots.Boden bearbeitbar, keine starken Fröste: Choose a sunny location and loose soil.

Growing

  • Prepare soil, loosen, and weed.Good soil preparation is crucial for growth.

April

Sow directly outdoors or plant pre-grown shallots.First weeding if necessary.

Planting

  • Sow directly outdoors or plant pre-grown shallots.Boden bearbeitbar, keine starken Fröste: Late sowing is possible, but harvest may be delayed.

Growing

  • First weeding if necessary.Early removal of weeds reduces competition.

May

Regularly hoe and remove weeds.Water during dry spells.

Growing

  • Regularly hoe and remove weeds.Keep the soil loose and weed-free.
  • Water during dry spells.Trockenheit: Consistent moisture promotes bulb growth.

June

Continue weeding and watering as needed.Watch for pests like the onion fly.

Growing

  • Continue weeding and watering as needed.Ensure good air circulation around the plants.

Plant health

  • Watch for pests like the onion fly.Cultural practices like mulching can help.

July

Stop fertilizing.Water as needed until leaves begin to wither.

Harvest

  • Stop fertilizing.This promotes bulb maturation.

Growing

  • Water as needed until leaves begin to wither.Trockenheit: Reduce watering towards the end of the growing period.

August

Harvest shallots as soon as the leaves wither.Let the harvested bulbs dry in a airy, dry place.

Harvest

  • Harvest shallots as soon as the leaves wither.Blätter welken: Gently pull from the soil to avoid damage.
  • Let the harvested bulbs dry in a airy, dry place.This is important for storage.

September

Store dried shallots.Tidy up beds and prepare for the next crop.

Growing

  • Store dried shallots.Zwiebeln trocken und gut gereift: Store in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place.
  • Tidy up beds and prepare for the next crop.Remove plant debris and incorporate compost.

October

Quiet month

November

Quiet month

December

Quiet month

Flowering & pollination

Shallot Flowering & pollination

Self-fertility

high

Pollinator needed

no

Overview

Shallots are mostly self-fertile, but cross-pollination by insects can promote fruit and seed development.

Notes

Bees and other insects visit the flowers and contribute to pollination.

Companion guide

Shallot Companion guide

Companion guide

Good neighbors

CarrotLettuceStrawberryHerbs (e.g., Parsley, Dill)beet

Avoid

CabbageBeanPea

Use & storage

Shallot Use & storage

Harvest

Harvest when the leaves begin to wither. The bulbs should be dried thoroughly.

Storage

Cool and dry

Storage life

Several months (3-6 months, depending on variety and storage conditions).

Harvest

Harvest when the leaves begin to wither. The bulbs should be dried thoroughly.

Processing

DryingPickling in vinegar or oilFreezing (after blanching)Candying

After harvest

After harvesting, let the shallots dry in a well-ventilated, dry place for 1-2 weeks until the necks and skins are dry. Sort out damaged bulbs.

Edibility & safety

Shallot Edibility & safety

For people

In brief: which parts are edible, which parts remain risky, and whether raw consumption makes sense.

Edible parts:Bulb, Leaves (young shoots)
Raw consumption:The bulbs can be consumed raw, but are milder than onions. Young leaves can also be used raw or cooked.

Safety notes

Shallots are non-toxic and safe for consumption.

Animal safety

For animals, the specific plant part matters here: some parts may be suitable, while others should be avoided. At least one critical rating is listed for 13 animal types.

Animal safety by plant part

Each row shows which parts are more suitable and which parts are critical.

Companion animals

Dog icon for animal safety ratingDog

No suitable parts listed

Bulb, Leaves

Symptoms

Vomiting, Diarrhea, Gastrointestinal irritation

contact a vet if ingested

Shallots belong to the Allium genus and contain sulfur compounds such as disulfides and thiosulfates that can cause hemolytic anemia in dogs. Although specific studies on shallots in dogs are lacking, toxicity is likely due to chemical similarity to known toxic Allium species (onion, garlic). Even small amounts can cause gastrointestinal irritation; larger amounts lead to oxidative stress and hemolysis. No safe…

Open animal page
Cat icon for animal safety ratingCat

No suitable parts listed

Bulb, Leaves

Symptoms

Vomiting, Diarrhea, Gastrointestinal irritation

contact a vet if ingested

Shallots belong to the Allium genus and contain disulfides and thiosulfates that can cause hemolytic anemia in cats. While specific studies on shallots in cats are lacking, toxicity is probable due to the known effects of Allium compounds in this species.

Open animal page
Rabbit icon for animal safety ratingRabbit

No suitable parts listed

Bulb, Leaves

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Shallots belong to the Allium genus and contain disulfide compounds that can cause hemolytic anemia in rabbits. While shallots are safe for human consumption, they are unsuitable for rabbits and should be avoided. Both young leaves and the bulb pose a risk. If ingested, the animal should be monitored and a veterinarian consulted if symptoms appear.

Open animal page
Guinea pig icon for animal safety ratingGuinea pig

No suitable parts listed

Bulb, Leaves

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Shallots contain disulfides and thiosulfates that can be toxic to guinea pigs. While specific data for guinea pigs is lacking, the toxicity of Allium species in small mammals is well documented. All parts of the plant should be avoided.

Open animal page
Hamster icon for animal safety ratingHamster

No suitable parts listed

Bulb, Leaves

Symptoms

Vomiting, Diarrhea, Gastrointestinal irritation

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Shallots contain disulfides and thiosulfates that can cause hemolytic anemia and gastrointestinal distress in hamsters. While specific hamster data is lacking, toxicity is known in related rodents and other small mammals. No parts are considered safe for feeding. If ingested, monitor for symptoms and consult a veterinarian.

Open animal page
Budgie icon for animal safety ratingBudgie

No suitable parts listed

Bulb, Leaves

Symptoms

Vomiting, Diarrhea, Gastrointestinal irritation

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Budgies should not be given any part of the shallot, as Allium compounds can cause hemolytic anemia and gastrointestinal distress. Even small amounts can be risky. If ingested, contact an avian veterinarian.

Open animal page

Farm animals

Horse icon for animal safety ratingHorse

Bulb

Leaves (young shoots)

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset

contact a vet if symptoms appear

The bulb of the shallot is suitable for horses in small amounts as a treat, but the leaves may cause gastrointestinal upset due to their higher disulfide content. Regular feeding is not recommended.

Open animal page
Chicken icon for animal safety ratingChicken

No suitable parts listed

No risk parts listed

unknown

No reliable species-specific assessment is available.

Open animal page
Duck icon for animal safety ratingDuck

No suitable parts listed

Bulb, Leaves

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal irritation, Vomiting, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

No reliable species-specific assessment is available.

Open animal page
Goose icon for animal safety ratingGoose

No suitable parts listed

Bulb, Leaves

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal irritation, Vomiting, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

No specific sources found for geese and shallots. Based on the known toxicity of Allium species to birds and the general hazard posed by disulfides and thiosulfonates, a conservative assessment is made. Consumption should be avoided.

Open animal page
Sheep icon for animal safety ratingSheep

Bulb

Leaves (young shoots)

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset

observe

The bulb is safe for sheep in moderation, while young leaves should be avoided due to potential disulfide content. Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal upset.

Open animal page
Goat icon for animal safety ratingGoat

Bulb

Leaves (young shoots)

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset

observe

No direct species-specific source was found for goats. This is a cautious inference from the sheep profile and the known plant-part risks.

Open animal page
Cattle icon for animal safety ratingCattle

Bulb

Leaves (young shoots)

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Diarrhea

observe

The bulb of the shallot is suitable for cattle in small amounts as a feed supplement, however the leaves may cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in excess. Shallots contain disulfides and thiosulfates which can cause gastrointestinal irritation in large quantities. Acceptable as a supplemental feed in moderation, but not recommended as a primary feed.

Open animal page
Pig icon for animal safety ratingPig

Bulb

Leaves (young shoots)

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

observe

The bulb of the shallot is suitable for pigs in small amounts as a treat, but young leaves may cause gastrointestinal upset due to disulfides and thiosulfinates. Regular feeding is not recommended.

Open animal page

These guidelines are for general information only and do not replace veterinary diagnosis. If critical plant parts were ingested or the animal shows unusual behaviour or symptoms, seek veterinary advice.

Max risk

4 / 5

Highest status

toxic

Urgency

contact a vet if ingested

Saving seed

Shallot Saving seed

Seed viability

1 - 2 years

Practical tips

Shallot Practical tips

Common beginner mistakes

Sowing or planting too late, leading to reduced yields.Neglecting weed control, which weakens the plants.Overwatering, leading to waterlogging and rot.Growing in the same bed without crop rotation, which favors diseases.

Success pattern

Early sowing/planting in spring in a well-prepared, sunny location.Regular but moderate watering and weed removal.Adherence to crop rotation and good companion planting.Careful drying and storage of harvested bulbs.

High-impact tips

Mulching the soil after seedlings emerge reduces weeds and maintains consistent moisture.Choosing a robust variety suitable for the region.Using net covers against the onion fly if it is a problem.

Grower observations

Many gardeners report that shallots are more disease-resistant than common onions when grown under optimal conditions.The drying phase after harvest is crucial for storability. Shallots that are too moist rot quickly.The delicate flavor of shallots makes them a preferred choice for fine sauces and dressings.

Plant Profile

Additional plant images

Shallot (Allium ascalonicum): whole plant for plant portrait - Alliums, Amaryllis family, Harvest July - August
Shallot (Allium ascalonicum): whole plant for plant portrait - Alliums, Amaryllis family, Harvest July - August

Health

Pests, Diseases

Pests

Onion fly

Small fly whose larvae infest and damage bulbs and roots.

Thrips (Onion thrips)

Small, slender insects that suck plant sap, leaving silvery speckles on the leaves.

Nematodes (e.g., Onion nematodes)

Microscopically small roundworms that grow within the plants, destroying them from the inside.

Diseases

Downy mildew

Fungal disease causing yellowish spots on leaves, followed by a purplish-grey sporulation in humid weather.

Fusarium rot

Fungal infection causing rot of the bulbs, often starting at the root or tip.

White rot

Fungal disease affecting the roots and base of the bulb, leading to plant death. Characterized by white, cottony mycelia and small black sclerotia.

Deficiencies

Nitrogen deficiency

  • Uniform yellowing of older leaves
  • Stunted plant growth
  • Small bulbs

Potassium deficiency

  • Yellowish margins on older leaves that later become necrotic
  • Poor bulb formation and storability
  • Reduced disease resistance

Magnesium deficiency

  • Yellowing between the leaf veins (intercostal chlorosis) on older leaves
  • Reddish discoloration possible

Plant health

Onion flyThripsDowny mildewWhite rotNitrogen deficiencyPotassium deficiencyMagnesium deficiencyBolting

Diagnosis help

Shallot Diagnosis help

Pest groups

Flies (Onion fly)Sucking pests (Thrips)Nematodes

Disease groups

Fungal diseases (Downy mildew, Fusarium, White rot)

Prevention

Strictly adhere to crop rotation (at least 3-4 years break after Allium species).Use healthy, disease-free planting material.Site selection: sunny, well-ventilated, sheltered from wind.Soil care: Loose, well-draining, humus-rich soil. Avoid waterlogging.Mixed cropping with suitable partners (e.g., carrots, lettuce).Cultural practices: Timely sowing/planting, hoeing for weed control, mulching.Encourage beneficial insects.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis often requires examination of the bulbs and roots for pests or pathogens. Pay attention to typical symptoms and environmental conditions.

Cultural prevention

Strict crop rotation (min. 3-4 years break after Allium).Selection of healthy, certified planting material.Optimal site selection (sunny, sheltered from wind).Soil improvement (loose, well-draining, humus-rich).Avoidance of waterlogging.Mulching for moisture regulation and weed suppression.Promotion of soil health through organic matter.

Monitoring

Regular monitoring of plants for early signs of pests or diseases.Use of yellow sticky traps to monitor fly infestation.Visual inspection of leaves and bulbs.

First response

For pests: Spray with water, use beneficial insects (predatory mites, lacewings).For fungal diseases: Plant extracts (e.g., horsetail), copper preparations (use sparingly).Remove and dispose of infested plant parts immediately.

Diagnostic rules

Yellowish spots on leaves, later purplish-grey coating on the underside.

Possible causes: Downy mildew

  • Check humidity
  • Assess temperature and ventilation

Soft, brown or pink rot on the bulb, leaves yellow and wilt.

Possible causes: Fusarium rot

  • Examine bulb (base and tip)
  • Check soil moisture and temperature

Plant wilts and dies from the top down, white fungal growth at the bulb base, black sclerotia in the soil.

Possible causes: White rot

  • Inspect root area and bulb base
  • Check soil for sclerotia

Silvery-grey speckles on leaves, leaves stunted.

Possible causes: Thrips

  • Examine leaves for small insects or feeding marks

FAQ

When is the best time to plant shallots?

The best time to sow or plant shallots is in spring, as soon as the soil is workable and no hard frosts are expected, usually from March to April.

How much space do shallots need?

Shallots should be planted with a spacing of about 10-15 cm in the row and 20-30 cm between rows. This ensures good air circulation and sufficient space for bulb development.

Can shallots grow in the shade?

Shallots prefer a sunny location. While they can grow in partial shade, yields and bulb development are best in full sun.

How do I know when shallots are ripe?

Shallots are ripe when the leaves begin to wither and fall over. This usually happens in summer, around July or August.

What is the best way to store shallots?

After harvesting, shallots should be dried thoroughly. Then store them in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place, e.g., in a net bag or basket. This way, they can be stored for several months.

What are good neighbors for shallots?

Good neighbors for shallots include carrots, lettuce, strawberries, and various herbs like parsley or dill. They help deter pests and promote growth.

What diseases can affect shallots?

Common diseases include downy mildew, Fusarium rot, and white rot. Prevention through crop rotation, good ventilation, and healthy soil is crucial.

Is Shallot safe for Dog?

Shallot is classified as toxic for Dog. Risk: 4 / 5. Urgency: contact a vet if ingested. Shallots belong to the Allium genus and contain sulfur compounds such as disulfides and thiosulfates that can cause hemolytic anemia in dogs. Although specific studies on shallots in dogs are lacking, toxicity is likely due to chemical similarity to known toxic Allium species (onion, garlic). Even small amounts can cause gastrointestinal irritation; larger amounts lead to oxidative stress and hemolysis. No safe…

Is Shallot safe for Cat?

Shallot is classified as toxic for Cat. Risk: 4 / 5. Urgency: contact a vet if ingested. Shallots belong to the Allium genus and contain disulfides and thiosulfates that can cause hemolytic anemia in cats. While specific studies on shallots in cats are lacking, toxicity is probable due to the known effects of Allium compounds in this species.

Is Shallot safe for Rabbit?

Shallot is classified as do not feed for Rabbit. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Shallots belong to the Allium genus and contain disulfide compounds that can cause hemolytic anemia in rabbits. While shallots are safe for human consumption, they are unsuitable for rabbits and should be avoided. Both young leaves and the bulb pose a risk. If ingested, the animal should be monitored and a veterinarian consulted if symptoms appear.

Is Shallot safe for Guinea pig?

Shallot is classified as do not feed for Guinea pig. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Shallots contain disulfides and thiosulfates that can be toxic to guinea pigs. While specific data for guinea pigs is lacking, the toxicity of Allium species in small mammals is well documented. All parts of the plant should be avoided.

Guides

Related guides

Garden guides

Sources

Public sources

  1. Wikidata entity

    Wikidata · 2026-05-15

  2. GBIF species match

    GBIF · 2026-05-15

  3. Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Schalotte

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-15

  4. English Wikipedia: Shallot

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-15

  5. Trefle API: Allium ascalonicum

    Trefle · 2026-05-15

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