This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: June to July
• Hardiness: fully hardy
• Bulb size: 10/12


Huge globes of small star-shaped, pinkish-purple flowers appear in summer above narrow, grey-green leaves. In bloom these fabulous globes - up to 20cm (8in) in diameter - have a metallic sheen. The faded flowerheads hold up well in the border and are useful for dried flower arrangements. Perfect for a sunny site, dotted in small groups among ornamental grasses, or as part of a Mediterranean scheme. Alliums look best planted between medium-sized herbaceous plants, which help to mask the strap-like leaves, which fade by the time the flowers appear.


• Garden care: Bulbs can be planted 15cm deep and 15cm apart. Pot-grown plants can be enjoyed as they are while in bloom, but as the flowers fade, they should either be potted up or planted out in the garden. Avoid excessive mositure when the plants become dormant (from late summer) and lift and divide over-large clumps in autumn or spring.