Allium, Latin for garlic, Flowering Onions are available in diverse heights and sizes, are rabbit-, rodent- and deer-resistant, and are seldom affected by disease. Adored by bees, butterflies and pollinators, Allium extend the spring flowering season with bold, dramatic color and statuesque garden architecture. They are also valuable cut and dried flowers.

Allium require full sunlight although there are several varieties that can also thrive in partial sunlight: A. cowanii, oreophilum and siculum bulgaricum. Allium require rich, well-draining and neutral pH soil and benefit from a summer dry period. A. unifolium can handle soil with a bit more moisture. All Allium must be planted outdoors in the fall after the soil has cooled down to around 55°F (normally after two weeks of night time temperatures hovering around 40°F). While most Allium are not recommended for forcing over the winter, there are several varieties that are known to be good forcers: A. cowanii, karataviense and unifolium. Please note that flower size is presented as the width, or diameter, from left to right.

Plant the larger Allium bulbs 6" to 8" deep and 8" to 10" apart. Plant the smaller Allium bulbs 4" deep and 3" to 4" apart. Top size bulbs. Bloom time: May through August depending on the variety. Height: variable depending on the variety. Variable horticultural zones ranging from 3-10 depending on the variety.