Allium ‘Globemaster’

A bed of allium 'Globemaster' blooming in June.

* Common name: Ornamental onion ‘Globemaster’

* Botanical name: Allium ‘Globemaster’

* What it is: A winter-hardy ornamental onion plant that gets purple softball-sized flower balls from late May through much of June. Very striking and unusual… and animals don’t bother it. Usually grown from fall-planted bulbs.

* Size: Flower heads poke up 3 to 4 feet above the strappy leaves. Space about 18 inches apart.

* Where to use: Adds great vertical interest to perennial borders, especially when planted in triangular groups of three and spotted throughout the bed. A must in any kids garden.

* Care: Cut off flower stalks when plant is done blooming, then cut leaves to the ground after they brown out in late summer or early fall. Fertilize in early spring and/or fall with a bulb-type fertilizer, such as Bulb Tone or Bulb Booster. Pest-free.

* Great partner: Looks good surrounded by practically anything, but pairs especially well with white, pink or purple perennials. Hardy geraniums, which bloom at the same time, are ideal.