Allium originate from the dry areas of the north hemisphere and are a genus of biennial bulb or rhizomatous gardening plants.

There are over 600 species.

Flowers are umbel globes at the end of long stems.

Leaves are foliar and alternate.

The bulbs or rhizomes are shallow rooted and the plants have a tendency to uproot in high winds. So staking is advised in exposed gardens.

Essential Info

Genus: Allium

Family: Alliaceae

Species: Cristophii

Common Names: Ornamental onion, Star of Persia.

Classification: Biennial.

Height: 60cm (24inches).

Flowering: Throughout summer.

Where to plant info

Ornamental onions are a perfect gardening plant for mixed planting and look good with most other plants of a similar height.

They can be planted as a single plant grouped with other plants or for a good display grow them in groups of five or more.

Where: Ideal for borders and beds.

Site: They prefer full sun, they thrive in it!

Soil: Any rich and free draining soil.

Propagation info:

By seed in spring.

Best germinating temperature: 70 deg F.

Maintain a temperature of 55 to 60 deg F after seedlings emerge.

How to sow seeds..... read more

By offsets in autumn.

If you want any further information on Allium or any of your favourite gardening plants please feel free to contact us

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