Allium sphaerocephalon
round-headed leek or round-headed garlic
A gorgeous allium with small, egg-shaped flowerheads, that top tall, slender stems in mid- to late summer. Planted en-masse in a border, these diminutive claret-coloured flowers look great emerging from a screen of foliage, or against a backdrop of then the flowers gently fade as summer comes to a close.
How to care for Allium sphaerocephalon:
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 moisture when the plants become dormant (from late summer) and lift and divide over-large clumps in autumn or spring.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.9m
Eventual spread:
0.08m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
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This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
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Pets: TOXIC if eaten; Humans: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten
