Allium christophii 7 bulbs

An RHS Award of Garden Merit holder, Allium christophii is one of the most spectacular ornamental onions, producing enormous, softball-sized umbels of silvery-lilac, star-shaped flowers — the largest flowerhead of any commonly grown allium. Held on sturdy, upright stems above strap-like leaves that fade before flowering, the blooms appear in early summer and dry beautifully in place, providing striking architectural interest right through into autumn.

Reaching around 30-50cm in height, this variety is best planted in autumn, 12cm deep and about 30cm apart, in well-drained soil in full sun. It copes well with dry summer conditions once established and dislikes winter waterlogging, so improve heavy soils with grit before planting. Left in place, the dried seedheads make a lovely addition to cut flower arrangements as well as continuing to earn their keep in the border.