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Purple Sensation Allium

Purple Sensation Allium

Common name Purple Ornamental Onion
Latin name Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’
Quantity per bag 5 bulbs
Purple Sensation ornamental onion produces beautiful deep purple spherical flower clusters carried on sturdy stems. It is one of the most popular alliums for sunny gardens.

It adds strong vertical interest and intense colour to gardens while supporting pollinating insects. Its exceptional hardiness and ease of cultivation make it a reliable favourite.

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Product information
Bulb
identification
Common namePurple Ornamental Onion
Latin nameAllium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’
FamilyAmaryllidaceae
CyclePerennial
Bulb typeBulb
Quantity per pack5 bulbs
Product
description

Purple Sensation Ornamental Onion (Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’) is a timeless favourite admired for its dense, deep purple spherical flower clusters carried on strong, upright stems reaching 80 to 100 cm in height. Blooming from May to June, it adds striking vertical interest and a bold architectural touch to spring flower beds. Its blue-green foliage accompanies the emerging flower stems before naturally turning yellow after flowering. Hardy to Zone 3, this bulbous perennial reliably returns in Quebec gardens and is an excellent choice for creating colourful, structured, and long-lasting displays.

Plant the bulbs in fall at a depth of approximately 15 cm, spacing them 15 to 20 cm apart. ‘Purple Sensation’ prefers full sun and light, fertile, perfectly drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Water lightly after planting, then moderately during active growth, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Once established, this allium tolerates dry periods very well. A light application of compost in spring is generally sufficient. Wait until the foliage has turned completely yellow before cutting it back so the bulbs can replenish their reserves.

Perfect for perennial beds, borders, naturalistic plantings, and pollinator gardens, this allium creates beautiful contrast with white or yellow flowers. It pairs especially well with peonies, sage, catmint, coneflowers, and ornamental grasses, which highlight its striking purple flower spheres. Rich in nectar, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and many other beneficial insects, helping support garden biodiversity. The flower clusters are also excellent in fresh or dried bouquets and remain decorative long after flowering.

Main
benefit
Its large deep purple flower spheres create a spectacular graphic effect while attracting a wide variety of pollinators. Its abundant blooms add structure and colour to spring flower beds.
Garden
placement
Where to plant Perfect for spring flower beds, pollinator gardens, naturalistic plantings, and borders. Its deep purple flower spheres create striking contrast with white or yellow-flowering perennials. Pair it with peonies, sage, ornamental grasses, and catmint to create elegant, long-lasting displays. The dried flowers remain decorative for several months.
Care level Easy
Planting
and care
ExposureFull sun
Planting periodFall
Planting depth15 cm (6 in)
Rooting temperature15 to 18°C (59 to 64°F)
Hardiness zoneZone 3
WateringWater moderately during active growth, then allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, it tolerates dry periods well.
Soil typeLight, fertile, and perfectly drained soil. Avoid heavy or constantly wet soils.
Soil pHNeutral to slightly alkaline
FertilizationA light application of compost in spring is generally sufficient. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers, which encourage foliage growth rather than flowering.
Container
growing
Container growing is excellent in a pot at least 35 cm (14 in) deep with excellent drainage. Use a light potting mix enriched with compost and amended with sand to prevent excess moisture. Place the container in full sun to encourage abundant flowering. Water moderately during active growth and very little during dormancy. Containers may remain outdoors if drainage is excellent.
Seasonal
care
Leave the flowers to dry on the plant to extend their ornamental interest, then remove the faded stems. Wait until the foliage has dried completely before cutting it back. Water only during extended periods of drought. Avoid excess moisture during winter.
Bloom,
harvest
and garden
Bloom periodLarge deep purple flower clusters appear in spring and attract numerous pollinators. They are excellent for fresh or dried bouquets.
Flower colorDeep purple
HarvestNone
Companion plantsPeonies, catmint, sage, ornamental grasses, and coneflowers make excellent companion plants. They beautifully highlight its deep purple flowers.
Plants to avoidThe main problems are poorly drained soils that encourage bulb rot and slugs that may damage young shoots. Good air circulation helps reduce the risk of disease.
Wildlife appealBees and pollinators
Size
and growth
Height80 to 100 cm (32 to 40 in)
Spread15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 in)
Growth rateModerate
Rooting / establishment21 to 35 days
Frequently asked questions
The availability of our bulbs, cloves, tubers, rhizomes, seeds and plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may only be available for a limited time, depending on their natural cycle, planting period or available stock. These product pages are designed to guide and inspire your plant choices for the garden, vegetable garden, landscaping, container growing or sustainable outdoor projects.

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