THEIR lollipop blooms always make a statement in a border.The most majestic is the giant A. giganteum, which grows to 1.2m (4ft) and produces impressive lilac ballshaped flowers in early summer. The popular A. cristophii has a narrow growth habit which means bulbs can be slotted between other plants in the garden during autumn. Alliums will thrive in any well-drained soil in full sun.

Clumps should be divided in autumn every three years. They look great popping up through ornamental grasses which hide the allium foliage.