Drumstick allium (Allium sphaerocephalon) AL-ee-um sfay-roe-SEF-ah-lon Genus:  Allium The drumstick allium has egg-shaped flowers in summer that start off green, then bloom and develop to pink and then clover red-purple. These plants are attractive in a bed or border, especially peeking up through other plants, such as roses, so that their nondescript foliage is hidden. Their vertical presence and eye-catching flower shape are valuable additions to the garden, and they naturalize freely. Noteworthy Characteristics:  The charming purple-red drumsticks bloom in midsummer and then fade as summer wears on. Care:  Plant 2 to 4 inches deep in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun in autumn. Propagation:  From seed, sow in containers in a cold frame when ripe or in spring. Some Allium take two years to germinate. Remove offsets in fall. Problems:  Bulb rots in damp conditions. White rot, mildew, rust, smut, and various fungal leaf spots can occur. Onion fly and thrips are also possibilities.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Summer Flower Color Purple, Red Uses Beds and Borders, Naturalizing Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Bulbs