The Allium bulbs Purple Sensation are bulbs of an ornamental onion with deep purple, globe-shaped flowers about ten centimetres across. The plant grows to around 70 to 80 centimetres tall. Purple Sensation is one of the best-known alliums: sturdy, winter hardy and also a good cut flower.

The bulbs are size 10/12 and each produce one strong flower stem. In the border the purple globes float beautifully above lower perennials, and they also look good in a large pot on the patio. With 15 bulbs you fill a large pot of about 50 centimetres or create an eye-catching group in the border. With 30 bulbs you add repetition to a longer border, and with 60 or 120 bulbs you plant a whole bed or a wide strip along the path; allow 15 to 25 bulbs per square metre. Combine them with white or paler allium bulbs that flower in the same period. You will find more greenery for outdoors among our outdoor plants.

When should you plant the Allium bulbs Purple Sensation?

Put the Allium bulbs Purple Sensation in the ground from mid-October to the end of November. Around that time the soil temperature drops below 10 °C, so the bulbs still form roots without coming up above ground. If there is no frost, December is still possible. A cold winter period is needed for the flower bud to develop, so spring planting does not work.

When do the Allium bulbs Purple Sensation flower?

Flowering takes place in May and June, right in the gap between the last tulips and the summer perennials. Each flower head stays purple for about three weeks. After that, decorative seed heads remain. In a sheltered, warm spot flowering starts a little earlier, after a cold spring later. The bulbs return every year and can slowly naturalise in a favourable spot.

Care and tips Allium bulbs Purple Sensation

Plant the bulbs pointed end up at a depth of 10 to 15 centimetres, a little over twice the bulb height, and keep 15 to 20 centimetres between them. Allium wants loose, well-drained soil; lighten heavy clay with some sand or compost. For a pot, choose a deep model with a hole in the bottom and a layer of gravel or clay pebbles; you will find suitable models among our outdoor pots and baskets. The foliage often starts to yellow during flowering. That is normal: leave it until it comes away by itself, because the bulb draws its reserves from it. A little bulb fertiliser in spring is enough.

Water needs of the Allium bulbs Purple Sensation

Purple Sensation needs little water and prefers being slightly too dry to too wet. In open ground the rain is enough in most years. In a pot, check every week from the moment the leaves appear whether the soil feels dry, and only then water. Make sure water never stays at the bottom of the pot.

Light needs of the Allium bulbs Purple Sensation

Choose a sunny spot. With plenty of sun the flowers colour the deepest purple and the stems stay straight and strong. In shade the flower heads become smaller and the stems bend towards the light.

Are the Allium bulbs Purple Sensation toxic?

The Allium bulbs Purple Sensation are mildly toxic if ingested, like other ornamental onions. Store and plant them out of reach of pets and young children. If you have sensitive skin, gloves are advisable when planting.

How will my Allium bulbs Purple Sensation be shipped?

Your bulbs are carefully packed and shipped. That way they arrive safely and fresh from the grower.