Allium

Allium is an impressive and striking bloomer known for its large, round flower heads that often have a real attraction in the garden. The flowers of the Allium are usually composed of numerous small flowers that together form a spherical structure. They come in colors such as purple, white, blue and pink, depending on the species. The long, sturdy stems of the Allium carry the flower heads elegantly above the foliage, which creates a beautiful visual effect. After flowering, the seed pods often remain attractive to look at for a while.

Maintenance and ideal location

The bulbs should be planted in the fall in well-drained soil in a sunny to lightly shaded spot. Alliums prefer a dry, well-drained soil because they are sensitive to waterlogging. They are winter hardy and can survive the winter months without additional protection. During the flowering period in spring, it is important to keep the soil slightly moist, but overwatering should be avoided. After flowering, the leaves and stems may wilt, but the dried flower heads can form a decorative element in the garden. It is usually not necessary to transplant the Allium bulbs every year, because they often multiply naturally and return annually.

Scientific name and origin

The scientific name of Allium is Allium sphaerocephalon, -caeruleum or christophii. These plants are native to a wide geographic area, ranging from Europe and Asia to parts of North America. Alliums are familiar from the natural flora of temperate regions and are often found in grasslands and woodlands. Planting Allium bulbs brings a touch of the rich and diverse flora into your home garden, with a plant that is strikingly beautiful and provides years of enjoyment with minimal care.