Allium aflatunense explained

Allium aflatunense is a species of plant in the amaryllis family, native to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan in Central Asia. In other regions, it is commonly grown as a garden plant.[1]

Description

Allium aflatunense is a tall bulbous perennial plant with basal, straplike leaves, and hollow, slightly ribbed scapes (flower stems).[1] The flower heads are dense, globular umbels, about across, made up of numerous star-shaped, purplish-pink flowers.[1] It flowers in May and June, with seeds ripening in August. It is commonly sold as a bulb.

A. aflatunense is often confused with A. hollandicum.[2]

Cultivation

Allium aflatunense is generally hardy in USDA zones 4–8. The plant is suitable for use as a cut flower. While it prefers alkaline soil, it can tolerate poor soil conditions, as well as part shade (though it does best in full sun).

Notes and References

  1. Brickell, Christopher (Editor-in-chief), The Royal Horticultural Society A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants, p.95, Dorling Kindersley, London, 1996, .
  2. RHS Plant Finder 2009–2010, p.68, Dorling Kindersley, London, 2009, .