Huge dense umbels of lilac-purple flowers with deep purple filaments. A vigorous large plant, reaching 1.5m (5ft) or more when in flower. This is a very dramatic plant, particularly if grown in rich deep soils, so give it plenty of room. As a general rule, foliage emerges first, and then dies down as the flower stems emerge. After flowers are over, dead head, but leave the stems to die down. If flowerheads are required for drying, then wait until the plant is mature enough to produce several flower heads, and then remove half for drying, and leav the bulb with plenty of energy to die back into the bulb to ensure a good show the following year. As the foliage is unsightly once is has died back during flowering, it is a good idea to disguise the base in between herbaceous perennials. Alliums give an added dimension, extra colour and height to a perennial border.
