Plant allium bulbs from September to December. If needed, keep them in their open packets somewhere cool, dry and well ventilated until planting.
Allium cristophii, also known as Star of Persia, produces extraordinary globe-shaped flower heads made up of hundreds of shimmering, star-like violet-purple blooms. Appearing from late spring into early summer, the impressive heads can reach around 20–25cm across and are carried on strong stems above the surrounding foliage. They look particularly striking planted in groups through borders, where their architectural form adds height and structure among softer planting. As the purple flowers fade, the heads gradually dry to beautiful golden-brown seedheads, extending their decorative value well into summer and giving borders another layer of texture and interest.
The long, sturdy stems also make Allium cristophii an excellent flower for cutting. A few stems are enough to create a bold arrangement in a tall vase, either displayed on their own or combined with other seasonal flowers. The dried seedheads can be cut for arrangements too, or simply left standing in the garden. Fully hardy and easy to grow, Allium cristophii bulbs are planted in autumn and establish into reliable perennial plants, returning in following seasons when grown in suitable conditions. With its distinctive shape, generous flower heads and long season of interest, it is one of the most recognisable ornamental alliums.
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Plant profile
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Choose full sun or partial shade. Improve heavy soil with organic matter and horticultural grit. For containers, use peat-free multipurpose compost with good drainage.
Plant bulbs pointed side upwards, two to three times their own height deep. A slightly flattened side is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about.
Space small bulbs around 5cm apart. Larger bulbs need more room, generally around twice their own width apart, so their foliage and flowers can develop freely.
Water after planting if the soil is dry, then only when needed. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally. Decorative seedheads can remain in place.
- Botanical name
- Allium christophii
- Flower colour
- Purple
- Bulb size
- 12/14
- Established height
- 30-50cm
- Established spread
- 20-30cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
- Upright
- Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant spacing
- 25 bulbs per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- RHS Award (AGM)
- Yes
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Clay
Stony
Multipurpose compost - Suitable for
-
Borders
Gravel gardens
Wildlife gardens
Coastal gardens
Rockery
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens - Sunlight
- Full sun
- Toxicity
- Skin/eyes irritant
- Years to establish
- 1st year
Allium cristophii reviews
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