A favorite of flying pollinators, flowering alliums are popular because of their dependability and unique flower forms. The diversity within the genus gives us many choices for dynamic garden spaces and mixed borders, blooming throughout late spring and early summer.
For anyone interested in growing alliums, these plants are easy to grow and an ideal plant for gardeners of any skill level. Here, we round up several of the most popular ornamental alliums and detail some of their special characteristics.
8 Best Flowering Alliums To Try
Though there are some variations among species, rounded allium flower types are often most familiar to gardeners. These clustered blooms consist of hundreds of smaller, individual flowers called florets. Ornamental allium varieties such as these are noted for their height, sturdy stems, and tremendous appeal.
Though the color range of the genus isn’t extensive, you can expect open buds to reveal stunning flowers in shades of purple, pink and white. To help with managing flowering alliums, these selections are straightforward and easy going in a range of gardens.
1. Drumstick
Among the most popular small allium varieties, A. sphaerocephalon makes an excellent addition to borders as well as in containers. Small, egg-shaped blooms sit atop long stems, making Drumstick alliums useful in interplanting. Blooms open over the course of several weeks, persisting in the garden throughout summer until they are deadheaded or allowed to produce seed.
2. Globemaster
Immensely showy variety Globemaster leaves a lasting impression with its large composite blooms of hundreds of individual purple florets. These highly saturated flowers serve a wide range of purposes and make excellent plants to grow for structure, adding flair to the landscape as well as enticing pollinators. Hardy to USDA zones 3-9, expect this fragrant perennial to return seasonally with only a little care.
3. Graceful Beauty
Reaching a height of only 12 inches (30cm), Graceful Beauty is a great choice for container gardens and ground cover. Each summer, elegant white-pink flower heads rise above its grassy foliage. As a native species, this cultivar is well-suited across much of the United States, demonstrating both hardiness and resistance to disease.
4. Millenium
Often considered one of the best flowering allium varieties, Millenium is frequently grown as a focal plant in dramatic mixed garden borders and small beds. The plant's compact nature lends itself to dense plantings, adding substantial ornamental value to unfavorable spaces. The fragrant purple flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies and a wide range of other beneficial insects. Millenium is hardy to USDA zones 4-8.
5. Persian Blue
Persian Blue alliums are prized for their alluring purple-blue color, often seen as a rarity in the world of flowers. Rising atop wiry stems, these summer buds persist, remaining in bloom for several weeks. This cultivar is considered quite robust, as it’s highly resistant to disease and only seldom affected by browsing wildlife or pests.
6. Purple Sensation
A. hollandicum (aka A. aflatunense) is among the most common types of flowering alliums found at garden centers. Its composite flowers stand tall, reaching 24 inches (61cm) when in bloom. Large, purple flowers add beauty to a variety of spaces, from modern minimalist themes to cottage garden displays, water-wise landscapes and partly shaded beds. Experienced growers suggest planting four bulbs per square foot (0.092903m). Purple Sensation is hardy to USDA zones 3-9.
7. Silver Spring
Noted for its high ornamental value, Silver Spring is one of the most dramatic types of allium flower with its impressive color and distinctive appearance. White petals open to reveal splashes of bright purple, giving each floret dimension and depth. This variety has a delicate fragrance said to resemble honey or licorice. These flowers are best planted near porches, on patios or in large containers.
8. White Giant
A. stipitatum stands out among other species of allium for a variety of reasons. Its lush foliage often serves as an early-season groundcover in mixed beds until it produces flowers. For anyone looking to enhance a white flower theme, borders can be accentuated with an abundance of these pristine flower heads. The dried, faded flowers offer continued ornamental appeal, remaining the duration of the season. Easy to grow, White Giant is hardy to USDA zones 5-8.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Best Place to Plant Flowering Alliums?
Allium plants grow best where they are able to receive full sun throughout the day. Good drainage is also key, as most species will not tolerate wet or waterlogged soils. Beyond planting, alliums require only a little care, but may need support. This is especially true of taller allium flower types, which can benefit from staking or positioning in a more sheltered location.
Do I Cut Down Alliums After Flowering?
Cutting back or deadheading allium flowers is not essential. However, plants can benefit from the process. In terms of understanding the best post-bloom care for alliums, deadheading prevents the production of seed. This allows the plants to divert their energy into growth.
Which Alliums Bloom All Summer?
Most alliums will begin to bloom in late spring and continue into summer. Choosing long-lasting varieties with flowers that open over the span of several weeks often results in the best floral display.
-
Best Plants For Christmas Decorations – 8 Holly Jolly Holiday Decor IdeasLooking to spruce up for the holidays but want to go beyond the spruce? Here are 8 festive holiday plants just for you.
-
Gifts For Bird Lovers, Birders and Birdies To Attract More Feathered Friends To Your Yard!If you’re looking to bring more birdies to your garden, these gifts for bird lovers should definitely be on your wish list. Grab some avian attractions to get your gardens all aflutter
-
Unique Native Shrubs: 7 Natural Winners Every Gardener Should Add To The LandscapeWhile we know shrubs to be amongst the most reliable plants in our yards, some are naturally more resilient. These gorgeous native shrubs are sure to thrive in your plot
-
Time To Transplant Peonies: Why Fall Is The Best Time To Move Peonies, And How To Do It RightIf you want the healthiest peonies, replanting is a great way to boost longevity. Here’s why fall is the best time to move peonies, and how to transplant them correctly.
-
7 Cactus Dahlia Varieties And Semi-Cactus Dahlia Types To TryWhile some dahlias have soft petals or pompon heads, others have dramatic spikes! We round up seven outstanding cactus dahlia varieties and semi-cactus types to grow
-
Want Bright White Blooms? 12 Best White Flowers To Grow In Your YardA bold splash of color may add interest – but the right whites infuse brightness, purity and class. Here are 12 of the best white flowers to add to your plot
-
Essential Ground Cover Plants: 10 Options To Try For A Gorgeous, Low-Maintenance GardenYou might be thinking ground cover has a fairly forgettable place in your garden, just filling in the gaps – well, think again! These 10 ground cover plants are practical and pretty
-
Get More From Blooming Perennials: 12 of the Best Perennial Flowers For Years Of ColorThere are some flowering perennials you will quickly want to see again and again in your garden. Here are a dozen of the best perennial flowers to grow for years of dazzling blooms
-
Sarah Bernhardt Peony Care: How To Grow This Timeless BeautyFor timeless elegance and romantic allure, the showstopping Sarah Bernhardt peony is a stunning performer. Find out how to grow and cultivate this iconic flowering beauty
-
8 Longest-Flowering Perennials – For Blooms In Spring, Summer And FallPlants with a long flowering season provide continuous color and interest throughout the growing seasons. Discover beautiful perennials known for their extended bloom times.
