Allium atropurpureum (Ornamental Onion)

Allium atropurpureum is a hardy perennial bulb with star-shaped, deep purple-red flowers packed into a half-globe umbel, 2 in. wide (5 cm). Each flower consists of deep merlot-purple florets adorned with blueberry-purple eyes, which create a wonderful contrast of colors. Blooming in late spring to early summer, the flowers are borne on sturdy, upright stems above strap-shaped green leaves. If left in the garden after the flowers have faded, the seed heads will remain ornamental and add months of interest.

• Growing up to 2-3 ft. tall (60-90 cm), this beauty naturalizes easily and will come back year after year!
• Easily grown in rich, sandy to gritty, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. This Allium is drought tolerant.
• Known for attracting bees, butterflies, ​moths, and other pollinators, but deer ignore it.
• Stunning in beds, borders, and cottage gardens. Spectacular in large sweeping drifts. Plant in groups (at least 10 to 15 bulbs) for the best visual impact. Excellent as cut flowers for both fresh and dried arrangements!
• Mixes beautifully with other late spring flowering bulbs and creates stunning combinations with pink or white delphiniums, peonies, or irises.
• To be planted in fall.
• Native to Hungary and Turkey

Hundreds of Allium species exist, but only a few have made a name for themselves as garden plants. The ornamental onions distinguish themselves by their remarkable diversity in color, inflorescence, and flowering height. Many species bloom in early summer – just after the spring-flowering period and just before the exuberant full bloom of summer. Certain small species are just perfect for a rock garden, and several lend themselves to naturalizing. All species can be used in the border.