• four season interest
• architectural
• likes well drained loamy soil
• prefers full sun
• hardy and easy
• bulbs will multiply
• combines with other allium and low – medium height growing perennials
• deer resistant
• does not like wet soil
• great cut flower in all forms

There are hundreds of species of Allium in all sizes and colours but the giant species are standouts. In our dry climate these bulbs do very well growing and multiplying over the years. It is a good idea to lift them every few years and replant so each bulb has more space to grow larger. The bulbs are big and the bigger the bulb, the healthier the blooms. The giant allium some growing to 3,’ bloom in early summer and combine well with Cushion Spurge, Euphorbia polychroma, Iris, Lupins, Salvia, Geum and Cranesbills amongst others. Some species develop brown tips to their leaves as they bloom so a good cover of shorter perennials is a good idea to camouflage the foliage.

Because there are so many different species of Giant Allium, it is worth checking hardiness before planting. I have not grown Allium schubertii in this zone but included it because it has such a different form but is still a giant Allium

Allium giganteum, christophii and schubertii (hardiness questionable)in different forms combined with Iris, Clematis, Sildacea, Geum, Lupin, Sweet Rocket, Tradescantia. All except shubertii and ‘overseas’photographed in my garden.