When Does Drumstick Allium Bloom?

Characteristics

• Sometimes drumstick allium is referred to as round-headed garlic and most hail from the Mediterranean region or Asia. The flower is an egg-shaped green cluster in early summer and will gradually deepen to pink and then purple. The cluster remains in a tight oval even after the flowers are done. After the flowers the entire stem and head dries and makes an interesting shape and contrast in the garden. Drumstick allium can grow from 18 to 24 inches tall.

Bulbs

• Drumstick allium are injured in temperatures below 14 degrees F but must overwinter in the ground. This makes them unsuitable for extreme climates. The bulbs should be planted in fall in well-drained soil to prevent rotting. The bulb is replaced annually by a daughter bulb surrounded by bulblets. The reproductive cycle takes place entirely underground and requires a specific temperature cycle. First warm temperatures from 68 to 73 degrees F, then exposure to cold in the range of 28 to 35 degrees and finally a warm-up of 55 to 65 degrees. This cycle of temperatures will encourage the reproduction of the bulb and ensure the plant is perennial.

Planting

• Allium bulbs need to grow in well-worked soil with good drainage. The incorporation of compost will enhance nutrient composition of the soil to feed the bulb. Plant bulbs 5 inches deep with 2 to 3 inches of space between them. Drumstick allium provide a brilliant display when planted in mass. In U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone 3, the bulbs will need several inches of mulch to protect them and act as an insulating blanket.

Timing of Growth

• Allium's green stems begin to poke up when soil temperatures average 55 to 65 degrees F. The timing will vary depending on your zone but generally will be around Mother's Day. The stems grow quickly and within a few weeks the flower heads begin to form. They will stay as tight, green clusters for months or until temperatures are in the high 60s or 70 degrees F. Around late June or early July the color begins to blush and the knot of tiny flowers loosens a little. The flowers will remain attractive until late July or sometimes August and then begin to fade.