Allium 'Ivory Queen' (karataviense)

Where to Plant:

Select a sunny or lightly shaded spot at the front of a border or in a gravel garden. This particular allium is prized for its beautiful, broad, blue-grey leaves as much as its flowers, so place it where the foliage can be appreciated. It is also perfectly suited for growing in pots and containers. As with all alliums, a free-draining soil is vital for preventing the bulb from rotting during wet periods. Its low-growing habit makes it an ideal specimen for rockeries.

How to Plant:

Plant the bulbs in the autumn. Dig a hole and plant each bulb about 15cm deep, with the pointed end facing towards the sky. Space the bulbs around 15-20cm apart to give the impressive foliage enough space to unfurl properly. When planting in containers, use a loam-based compost and mix in a generous amount of horticultural grit to assist with drainage. Plant in groups to create a carpet of striking leaves, from which the ivory-white flower globes will emerge.

Aftercare:

This is a very low-maintenance plant. Once established in the ground, it is drought-tolerant and will not require watering. For container-grown plants, water moderately during the growing season but allow the compost to dry out slightly between waterings. The main feature, the leaves, will begin to fade as the flowers come into their own. Allow both the foliage and the faded flower to die back naturally to nourish the bulb for the following spring. There is no need to deadhead.