Allium ‘Millenium’ is a hybrid ornamental onion that combines the beauty of classic alliums with long lasting spherical clusters of deep purple flowers. This North American native is perfect for attracting pollinators, including bees and butterflies, and is prized for its resilience and low maintenance nature.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late summer (August)
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained soil, tolerant of both sandy and clay soils
Watering Needs: Low to moderate watering; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Deer-resistant due to its strong scent and texture
NATIVE STATUS
Hybrid cultivar whose parent species are both native to North America. This plant has been selectively bred for its showy flower heads and strong pollinator attraction, making it a great addition to native plant gardens, though it's not strictly a wild native.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Especially beneficial to the Swallowtail and Skipper species. The plant’s long blooming period provides sustenance during a critical time in the growing season when nectar sources can be scarce.
Bees
- This variety is bees’ best friend. Honeybees, bumblebees, and solitary bees flock to the blooms for their nectar and pollen in the growing season when other flowers are beginning to fade.
Other Beneficial Insects
- Attract a variety of other beneficial insects that help maintain a healthy garden ecosystem. This includes ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on aphids and other pests, keeping garden pests under control without the need for chemical pesticides.
Birds
- While the flowers are in bloom, birds do not typically visit for nectar, but the seed heads that follow provide a valuable food source for finches and other small seed eating birds.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
- For optimal growth and air circulation, space about 12 - 18 inches apart. This allows the plant to form its full sized flower heads without crowding. The plant will naturally expand and spread slightly over time.
Landscape Placement
- Perfect for flower borders, perennial beds, and pollinator gardens. Its upright stature makes it suitable for the middle or back of borders, where it can stand tall and provide structure. Additionally, it works well in wildflower meadows, rock gardens, and mixed plantings.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Attracts bees and butterflies and provides vibrant color, contrasting nicely with the deep purple of Allium.
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Rudbeckia hirta (Black-eyed Susan) - A cheerful addition that blooms around the same time and attracts pollinators.
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Nepeta x faassenii (Catmint) - Adds texture and contrasts with its grayish foliage and lavender flowers, while also attracting bees.
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Penstemon digitalis (Beardtongue) - A great perennial for attracting hummingbirds and bees, which complements Allium’s structure.
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Achillea millefolium (Yarrow) - Adds fine texture and contrast, with flat topped flowers that attract pollinators and beneficial insects.
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Calamintha nepeta (Calamint) - A compact aromatic plant that attracts bees and complements Allium with its delicate white flowers.
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Solidago (Goldenrod) - A late summer bloomer that adds a pop of yellow and supports pollinators into the fall.