Allium ‘Purple Sensation’  
(AL-lee-um)
syn. Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’;
Allium aflatunense ‘Purple Sensation’

Family: Amaryllidaceae

Common name: ornamental onion
Zone: 4 – 10 
Height: 28 – 32 in (70 – 80 cm) 
Spread: 4 – 8 in (10 – 20 cm)
Aspect: sun; partial shade
Soil: average; humus-rich; well-draining
Water: moderate

Description: A bulbous perennial with short basal leaves that die down by flowering time. Flower head consists of over 100 small, star-shaped purple-red blooms that form a globular starburst atop a sturdy green stem.

Special Notes: This allium looks great in a grouping of 7 – 9, or more. Recommend planting a low-lying perennial in front of the alliums to hide the less-than-stellar allium leaves. Flowers attract bees in good numbers. Deer and rabbit resistant. Can fall prey to the same diseases that afflict onions and garlic.

 

Caution: All parts are poisonous to humans in some degree.

 

Posted on February 12, 2023; updated on August 6, 2024