Allium cristophii

Sometimes called the 'Star of Persia,' Allium cristophii is native to Turkey and Iran. It bears huge, spherical flowerheads comprising up to 80 purple flowers with slightly flattened petals that create the perfect ball shape. As these fade, they resemble brown stars, and the complete stem will last for many weeks as part of a dried flower arrangement. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it the Award of Garden Merit (AGM).

Grow Allium cristophii in well-drained soil in a warm sunny site. Leave the spent flowerheads standing over winter to provide winter interest. Mulch annually with well-rotted manure or compost.