Allium ursinum (Wild Garlic)

More tolerant of part shade conditions than most Alliums, Allium ursinum (Wild Garlic) is a vigorous, bulbous perennial with loose umbels, 2 in. across (5 cm), counting up to 20 star-shaped white flowers. The blossoms are borne on erect, leafless stems and rise above pairs of elliptic, linear, deep green basal leaves. If bruised or crushed, the foliage exudes a strong onion or garlic aroma. Blooming from mid-spring to early summer, Wild Garlic may be grown for both ornamental and culinary uses since both its leaves and flowers are edible.

• Growing up to 6-12 in. high (15-30 cm), this species spreads by rhizomes and self-seeding, and over time can form large colonies.
• Easily grown in fertile, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Add grit when grown in clay soils to improve drainage. This Allium is drought tolerant.
• Stunning when planted in drifts in wild or naturalized areas.
• Known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for onion white rot, and downy mildew.
• Propagate by seed or division.
• Allium ursinum is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in moist woodland.

Many hundreds of Allium species exist, but only a modest few have made a name for themselves as garden plants. The ornamental onions distinguish themselves by their great 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. All species can be used in the border. Certain small species are just perfect for a rock garden, and several lend themselves to naturalizing.