Allium Pinball Wizard

Allium 'Pinball Wizard' is the dwarf version of the famous ornamental garlic A. 'Globemaster'. Its large spherical mauve-pink umbels measuring 18cm (7in) in diameter are carried on a short but sturdy stem at a height of 50cm (20in).

From May, Allium 'Pinball Wizard' forms globular umbels of star-shaped mauve-pink flowers, with a diameter of over 18cm (7in). Its flowers are carried on short but sturdy stems, 50cm (20in) in height. Before flowering, it forms a rosette of large lush green leaves, which wither as the flowers bloom.

The cultivation of 'Pinball Wizard' is simple. Sunlight and light soil are the main elements required for successful cultivation. However, it dislikes heavy and wet soils. Planting it in a 20x20cm (8x8x8in) pocket of pure sand is an effective trick to prevent rotting.

When isolated, it doesn't present much interest, but when paired with perennials in shades of pink and blue, it becomes remarkable. Plant it in a romantic mixed border style, surrounded by a carpet of Nepeta 'Six Hill Giant' and accompanied by Stachys byzantina and herbaceous peonies with large flowers, such as 'Break a Day' or 'Bowl of Beauty'. Place it against a backdrop of lush roses such as Rosa 'Eglantyne', R. 'Heritage', or R. 'Mary Rose'.

For a more "dynamic" effect, its flowers can structure a modern garden where multiple geometric shapes oppose each other. It can be paired with Stipa tenuissima, lavender, and cone-shaped trimmed boxwoods.

In short, the possibilities are endless. There is a corner in every garden where this allium will work wonders.