This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July
• Hardiness: fully hardy
• Allium bulb size: 18/20


The spherical heads of 'Globemaster' can grow up to 15cm across, and they are made up of numerous star-shaped, sterile flowers. These appear in midsummer, and look great in pots, but they can also be woven through a sunny border, dotted in groups among lower-growing perennials that will mask their foliage, which usually dies back before the flowers emerge.


• Garden care: 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 mositure when the plants become dormant (from late summer) and lift and divide over-large clumps in autumn or spring.