Northwest Blooms · Bulbs
Allium lusitanicum
Mountain Garlic
- Family
- Amaryllidaceae
- Height
- 8 to 12 inches
- Width
- 6 to 8 inches
- Flower color
- Pink to lilac-pink, forming small, rounded umbels
- Foliage color
- Gray-green, narrow, and strap-like
- Bloom time
- Midsummer to late summer
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Maintenance
- Low; deadhead after flowering to prevent self-seeding if not desired
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 8
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; deer and rabbit resistant due to its onion scent
About this plant
Allium lusitanicum is a charming ornamental allium that produces clusters of small, star-shaped pink to lavender flowers. Blooming from mid to late summer, these blossoms are held on slender, upright stems, adding a delicate yet vibrant touch to gardens. The narrow, grass-like foliage remains neat and unobtrusive, complementing the floral display without overshadowing it.
Native to the rocky slopes and grasslands of Europe, particularly in the Iberian Peninsula, Allium lusitanicum is well-adapted to sunny, well-drained environments. Its compact growth habit and ability to thrive in challenging conditions make it a versatile choice for rock gardens, borders, and naturalized settings. Additionally, the flowers are attractive to pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Rock Gardens · Containers · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Garden phlox · Black-eyed Susans · Daylilies · Lavender · Coreopsis · Russian sage
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Plant in generous groups rather than single spots, and set them among perennials whose new growth covers the fading foliage.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
