The drumstick allium has egg-shaped flowers in summer that start off green, then bloom and develop to pink, and then darken to red-purple. These plants are attractive in a bed or border, especially when peeking up through other plants, such as roses, so that their nondescript foliage is hidden. Their vertical presence and eye-catching flower shape are valuable additions to the garden, and they naturalize freely.

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Noteworthy CharacteristicsThe charming purple-red drumsticks bloom in midsummer and then fade as summer wears on.

CarePlant 2 to 4 inches deep in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun in autumn.

PropagationFrom seed, sow in containers in a cold frame when ripe or in spring. Some alliums take two years to germinate. Remove offsets in fall.

ProblemsBulb rots in damp conditions. White rot, mildew, rust, smut, and various fungal leaf spots can occur. Onion fly and thrips are also possibilities.

• Genus : Allium
• Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
• Zones : 10, 11, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
• Plant Type : Bulbs
• Light : Full Sun
• Moisture : Medium Moisture
• Growth Rate : Moderate
• Maintenance : Moderate
• Flower Color : Red
• Bloom Time : Summer
• Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest