Alliums, commonly known as flowering onions, are striking ornamental bulbs valued for their unique globe-shaped flower heads and strong architectural presence in the garden. Blooming from late spring into early summer, they provide a dramatic transition between spring and summer displays.
Available in a wide range of sizes and colours, alliums can vary from compact varieties suitable for rock gardens and borders to towering types that produce large, spherical blooms perched on tall, sturdy stems. Shades of purple, violet, pink, white, and blue add bold contrast and visual interest to planting schemes.
Allium bulbs are typically planted in autumn in well-drained soil and full sun. They are highly tolerant of dry conditions once established and are generally resistant to deer, rabbits, and most pests, making them a reliable and low-maintenance choice for gardeners.
Ideal for mixed borders, cottage gardens, prairie-style plantings, and modern landscapes, alliums pair beautifully with roses, ornamental grasses, and other late spring perennials. Their distinctive form and long-lasting blooms also make them excellent for fresh or dried floral arrangements.