![allium ozawa](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52519408377_d0b6a2f0a8_z.jpg)
The garden is sleeping now, but some plants, and even blooms, are holding on to bits of color during the transition to winter. One of those plants is the late-blooming Allium (A. thunbergii), 'Ozawa.' The photo above is from earlier in the season (mid-October), but this is the latest-blooming Allium in my garden. 'Ozawa' is hardy to USDA zone 4.
![ozawa caged](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52520158549_1a92bb9df3_z.jpg)
It's a petite little variety, only about a foot tall, and it forms a compact clump that comes back every year, but doesn't spread much (I have two clumps). Unlike my other Alliums, this one must be caged; if not, unfortunately the rabbits will eat the buds and blooms. Although there are fewer pollinators active when it's blooming in October and November, I have seen some on it; particularly honeybees and some flies.
![ozawa november](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52520158654_ae037aff4b_z.jpg)
It's even pretty and colorful after the blooms fade and the seeds start to form. At this point, it tends to shift from a light lavender color to bright pink.
![ozawa in snow](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52520360055_88b6577e9b_z.jpg)
Last week, after our first snow (which is melted now), I noticed the Allium's sweet spot of color. Beyond the rabbit challenge, it's any easy addition to the garden for late-season interest.
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I hope my American friends had a Happy Thanksgiving, and Happy Holidays to all in the weeks ahead!