Allium schubertii

Allium schubertii is an unusual-looking allium, bearing spiky heads of flowers with stems of different lengths, resulting in a dramatic effect. Individual florets are purple with a green centre. It's perfect for growing in sunny borders and in pots as an unusual centrepiece, and it makes a striking cut flower.

For best results, plant bulbs in fertile, well-drained soil up to three times their diameter. Grow Allium schubertii in well-drained soil, in a sunny spot. It's not fully hardy and in colder regions should be mulched. Alternatively, plant it in pots and move to a frost free area in autumn.