Allium amethystinum Forelock

Allium 'Forelock' is a unique ornamental garlic, whose flowers, perched at over 1.2m (4ft) in height, form curious dark purple umbels with a tuft of raised petals, like a stubborn lock of hair, which gradually falls into line and eventually rounds out to offer beautiful spherical inflorescences in full bloom.

The 'Forelock' ornamental garlic is derived from a selection of Allium amethystinum, a species native to the Mediterranean basin, similar in form and cultivation to A. sphaerocephalon. Standing at 1 to 1.5m (3 to 5ft) tall, 'Forelock' has deciduous, ribbon-like, flat, medium green leaves, 5 to 10mm wide. From May to June, umbel inflorescences, 10 to 12cm (4 to 5in) in diameter grow at the ends of the stems, with dark purple flowers that first blossom into upright tufts, then gradually take on a more spherical shape.

Native to dry temperate regions, Allium 'Forelock' tolerates all light, well-drained soils, including dry, poor, gravelly, and limestone ones, in a sunny and warm location. Once established, it naturalises well. Cultivation in pots is possible.

Use this variety in rock gardens, in groups, or in pots. Pair it with graceful perennials such as alchemilla, stipa, carex, perennial geraniums, and heuchera for an original display.