
Not all alliums tower overhead: 12 short, super-cute varieties to plant now
The allium genus is remarkably diverse. These low-growing allium varieties enchant with blooms from May through August.
1. Romsons
Allium ursinum. A species native to Åland’s woods that also thrives inland. This star-shaped little allium works both as an ornamental and as an edible. Blooms in May–June, height 15–30 cm (6–12 in).

2. Pink lily leek
A. orephilum. Originally from Central Asia, this compact, narrow-leaved species is well suited for rock gardens and beyond. Many varieties are rose-tinted. Blooms in June–July, height 10–20 cm (4–8 in).

3. A. farreri
A. farreri. Its slender leaves can be mistaken for grass, so take care when weeding—once it blooms, it’s easy to recognize. Blooms in June–July, height 20–30 cm (8–12 in).

4. Chives
A. schoenoprasum. In southern Finland, the native species’ tufted blooms color coastal rocks and sloping meadows; in the yard, it’s great in the vegetable patch or along a perennial border. Blooms in June–July, height 10–30 cm (4–12 in).

5. Siberian onion
A. ochotense. Its leaves form dense clumps reminiscent of karhunlaukka, and the bloom resembles a fluffy white clover. It’s a shade-loving plant that smells more strongly of garlic than it tastes. Blooms in June–July, height 30 cm (12 in).

6. Yellow garlic
A. moly. This species, which grows wild in southern Europe, was cultivated in the Uppsala Botanical Garden as early as 1658. It also does well in a rock garden, provided it’s protected from harsh sunlight. Cultivars are often larger than the wild form. Blooms in May–June, height 10–35 cm (4–14 in).

7. Himalayan allium
A. sikkimense. Native to mountain meadows and forest edges in South Asia, this species has proven hardy in Finland as well. A narrow-leaved allium among the late-summer blue bloomers. Blooms in August, height 15–30 cm (6–12 in).

8. American onion
A. unifolium. This graceful species looks lovely among low-growing rock-garden plants or in a spring container. Its nectar and pollen entice pollinators. Blooms in June, height 25–35 cm (10–14 in).

9. Ageing allium
A. senescens. Its fluffy spherical blooms attract butterflies in late summer. The leaves stay green through fall. It’s undemanding about growing conditions. Blooms in July–August, height 15–25 cm (6–10 in).

10. Kara Tau garlic ‘Ivory Queen’
A. karataviense. The large flower head of this compact species emerges just above its hands-width leaves. It’s excellent in a container too; pinkish cultivars also exist. Blooms in June, height 15–25 cm (6–10 in).

11. Yellow-flowered garlic
a. flavum. These modestly nodding, yet vibrantly colored blooms really stand out. A Mediterranean plant at its best in sunny, slightly dry conditions. Blooms in June–July, height 30–40 cm (12–16 in).

12. Allium zebdanense
A. zebdanense. This delicate-looking species is surprisingly hardy, offering lasting enjoyment in the garden. It adapts to varied conditions. Blooms in May–June, height 20–30 cm (8–12 in).
