Giant 'Dutchman' Allium

The Giant 'Dutchman' Allium is a bold and architectural ornamental onion prized for its towering height and massive, globe-shaped flower heads. Reaching up to 4 feet tall, it features sturdy, leafless stems that support dense, spherical clusters of tiny, star-shaped florets in a rich violet-purple hue. These impressive blooms, often 8 to 10 inches in diameter, appear in late spring to early summer and provide a dramatic vertical element in borders or mixed plantings. Its gray-green, strap-like foliage emerges in early spring and begins to die back as the flowers reach their peak but longer than any other allium. Highly attractive to bees and other pollinators, the Giant 'Dutchman' Allium also boasts natural resistance to deer and rodents, making it an excellent low-maintenance choice for gardeners.

Size: 20+

Zones 3 - 8

When to Plant

• Timing: Plant Allium bulbs in the fall, ideally 6-8 weeks before the first hard frost. This gives the bulbs enough time to establish roots before winter.

Where to Plant

• Location: Choose a sunny or partially sunny spot. Alliums prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is crucial. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with sand or compost to improve drainage.

How to Plant

1. Prepare the Soil:
• Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches.
• Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil and improve drainage.
2. Planting Depth:
• Plant the bulbs about 6-8 inches deep. This means you'll need to measure from the base of the bulb to the soil surface.
• Space the bulbs 6-8 inches apart. This allows them enough room to grow without overcrowding.
3. Planting Instructions:
• Dig a hole that's about 6-8 inches deep.
• Place the bulb in the hole with the pointed end facing up.
• Cover the bulb with soil and gently pat it down.
4. Watering:
• Water the bulbs thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil.
• Ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged over the winter.
5. Mulching:
• Apply a layer of mulch (about 2-3 inches) over the planting area to help insulate the bulbs and retain moisture.

Aftercare

• Spring Growth: As the weather warms in the spring, you'll see the foliage and flower stalks emerging.
• Watering: Water the bulbs regularly during their growing season but avoid overwatering.
• Fertilizing: A balanced fertilizer can be applied in early spring to encourage strong growth.

Tips

• Pests and Diseases: Alliums are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, good soil drainage and proper spacing can help prevent issues.
• Companion Planting: Alliums work well with other spring flowers like tulips and daffodils, as well as with summer perennials.

With these steps, you should have a mesmerizing display of Alliums in your garden come spring and summer!