Allium Bulbs
The ornamental alliums are a diverse group. There are tall growers with dense globes of starry flowers. These are well above the leaves and ground huggers whose colorful blooms open in small clusters. All demand well-drained soil and plenty of sun (afternoon shade will prolong bloom in warm climates). They flower at the end of the spring bulb season, after the tulips are done.
The genus Allium includes a number of familiar edible plants: onions, garlic, leeks, chives and shallots are all alliums. When you sniff the bulb or bruise the foliage of an ornamental allium, you will immediately think “onion!” People appreciate the flavors from this group, but deer find them distasteful. Plant alliums in deer country and rarely observe a nibble.