Santa Rosa Gardens

Allium aflatunense offers attractive, purple-pink drumsticks atop strappy foliage from June into summer.

Alliums are an excellent source of nectar for butterflies and bees, making them great plants for attracting beneficial insects into the garden. Allium is a wonderful addition to any flower arrangement, but be sure to cut the flower stem only. It is important for the foliage to remain on the plant so it can provide the food necessary for the bulb to bloom next year. When foliage has turned yellow or brown, the plant can be safely cut back. Plant allium in the fall, but be aware that different varieties have different blooming times. Larger alliums bloom in summer while smaller varieties are spring bloomers. When selecting your bulbs be sure to check for height, color and blooming time appropriate for your garden needs.