It is quite likely the Alliums never showed because they didn't get frozen for the winter. Alliums, Tulips, Daffodils,Hyaciths etc MUST have a period of being frozen or they most likely won't grow at all. At least 6-8 weeks. In zone 9 you can accomplish that by digging them up, place in a non-growing medium like saw dust or peat, put in freezer bags with holes and set in the freezer for 2 months then replant them. I'm in NY so I can leave mine in the ground. When looking around for things to plant in your area check the HARDINESS rating. If it is winter hardy in zone 5 or northward (i'm in 4) the chances are it will NEED freezing. I think you got lucky with the Crocuses and Lilies and you may not ever see those again if you don't dig and freeze. If you don't care for that much trouble there are bulbs which will not need freezing, Freesia, Crocosmia Gladiolas, Dahlias should be ok there. There are more. I don't buy those because I'm too lazy to dig those and store in the warm house all winter because they can't stand the cold. YES Liatris IS a bulb. They come fairly cheap at 12 for $4 here. Occasionally I get some Glads and use them as an annual letting them die in the ground in winter. Hey they're cheap at 50 for $5 here.As for a ground cover? You could try Pachasandra, Plumbago (what ego45 said) or Strawberries. I use Strawberries in one garden and they cover the ground and don't seem to bother the flowers. Plus you get to eat while weeding. I'm not sure if Columbines would be ok in your warm climate but its possible. Also put down a mulch. It will cover the soil and prevent weeds and hold moisture.A word to the wise.....check to see if what you buy is hardy in zone 4 or 5..it will need freezing.
Q