Millenium Allium 2018 Perennial Plant of the Year

Save some room in the garden for this year’s perennial plant of the year, Millenium allium.

This mid- to late-summer bloomer was selected by members of the Perennial Plant Association for its beauty, dependability, and low maintenance nature. It tolerates summer heat and adds needed color to the often-sluggish late summer garden. The round rose-purple flowers rise above the 10 to 15” high dark green leaves. Blossoms eventually turn tan with a blush of color.

Millenium allium is hardy in zones 4, possibly 3 to 9. Grow it in full sun and well-drained soil. Provide a bit of afternoon shade if you’re gardening in an area with very hot summers. Combine this allium with other pollinator favorites like Little Lemon goldenrod and salvia.

Plant a few where you can enjoy the butterflies and bees that flock to the blossoms. But deer and rabbits tend to leave it be.

A bit more information: Millenium is spelled with just one n. You may find this variety written with two n’s. No matter the spelling, it is the same plant.