These are species and varieties of onions with that do not grow very tall, and may be suited to use in a rock garden or riased bed, or growing in pots. They have clusters of flowers with pointed petals, which may be white, pink, purple, blue or, in a few cases, yellow.

Allium macranthum S&L 5369 has plum purple flowers in a loose head, with each flower on an arching stem, so that it hangs downwards. The individual flowers are quite large, so it makes an attractive display.