ornamental onion

Allium atropurpureum

BulbAmaryllidaceae

ornamental onion
Deer-resistantRabbit-resistantDrought tolerantFragrant
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size2 to 3 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
Bloom season
Spring, summer
Bloom color
Purple
Soil types
Sand, loam, clay, chalk
Soil pH
Acid, alkaline, neutral

Garden uses

BorderLow maintenance

Attracts

ButterfliesBees

Notes

Ornamental onion (Allium atropurpureum) is a bulb for border planting and low maintenance gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist soil of most types. Warm purple florets form half domes about the size of a tennis ball on 2-3 foot stems. Deer and rabbits tend to pass it by. Bees and butterflies visit the fragrant blooms.

Pairs well with New Zealand wind grass, Black Adder Bill Williams Mountain giant hyssop, and Ravenswing cow parsley.