Allium christophii
low
purple
early summer
12 to 24 in.
6 to 12 in.
No
Asia
sun
USDA zones 3-8
not specified
Persian star allium is grown for its amazing flower heads. They are composed of many small, star-shaped purple flowers with narrow petals. In late spring, they form a large sphere about the size of a softball.
Once the flowers are done blooming, the seedhead turns tan and retains its shape. Some gardeners like to use the dried flower head in craft projects.
The strong stems hold the flower head high above the leaves. The strap-like leaves grow close to the ground and are hardly noticeable. Planted as a bulb in fall.
Persian star allium has performed very well at the Xeriscape Garden. It is one of the few bulbs that the voles, rabbits, and deer leave alone.
Plant it among other plants with beautiful leaves since only the flowers have oramental value.
After blooming, the entire plant will go dormant. Cut back to ground level after the seedhead and stalk turn brown in mid summer. The seedhead can be used in dried arrangements or crafts.