Allium ( Ornamental Onion )

Unity, humility, patience

The genus Allium includes a group of onion-, chive- and garlic-related flowering plants that have been prized since ancient times for their medicinal, aphrodisiac and culinary qualities. Members of the Liliaceae family, two allium varieties are commonly used by today's florists. Allium giganteum, or giant onion, measures 3 to 4 feet tall and features 4- to 5-inch, white, blue, lavender or purple snowball-shaped inflorescences atop bare stems, while A. sphaerocephalon, or drumstick chives, are 2 to 3 feet tall, with smaller, oval-shaped, purple flowers.

April through September, peak in June and July. 7-10 days.

To revive flattened heads, hold upside down with stem between palms of hands and roll back and forth to spin and fluff head. Onion odor emitted when cut will dissipate, but avoid using hot water, which tends to intensify smell.

A striking flower form with a strong line element, allium works well in designs ranging from flowing to sparse.