Allium atropurpureum

Allium atropurpureum: Wine-Dark Globes That Rise Above

Deep purple-red domes, so dark they look like they're brooding over something. This ornamental onion is moody, magnificent and completely irresistible to the bees. EVERY BORDER NEEDS A DARK HORSE.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Allium atropurpureum
• Common Name: Ornamental Onion, Dark Purple Onion
• Height: 60–75 cm (2–2.5 ft)
• Spread: 15 cm (6 in)
• Flowers: Deep purple-red, star-shaped florets packed into flattened domes about 5 cm (2 in) across
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer (May to June)
• Foliage: Narrow green basal leaves that fade around flowering time
• Features: Good for cutting and drying

Where to Plant: Tuck it in groups of five or more among lower plantings in a sunny border, rock garden or gravel planting, where the dark heads can rise above everything else. The leaves wither as it blooms, so place it where leafy neighbours can hide the base. The stems also make striking cut flowers.

Companion Plants: Tuck Dianthus Glamour Time™ along the front, where its pink flowers start in June as the allium finishes. Salvia 'Rose Marvel' picks up the deep purple with rose spikes from early summer to early fall. Phlomis tuberosa rises behind to 150 cm with lavender whorls all summer, filling the gap the allium leaves. Plant everything in full sun.

Plant Care: Plant in full sun in average, well-drained soil. Bulbs dislike sitting wet, so avoid low spots where spring melt collects. Water while it's actively growing, then let it go dry once the foliage yellows in summer. Leave the leaves until they've withered, so the bulb can recharge. The seed heads can stay up for structure or be cut for dried arrangements. Lift and divide crowded clumps after the foliage dies back.

History: Allium atropurpureum is native to southeastern Europe and western Asia, from Hungary through the Balkans to Turkey, and its name says exactly what you get: atro means dark and purpureum means purple. It has long been grown as one of the darkest-flowered ornamental onions.

Final Thoughts: Plant the bulbs in a sunny spot, cut a few for arrangements and dry the rest. Deer keep walking. THE ONION WITH A BROODING STREAK.