Hi Pizzuti,

Sorry that no one has been able to answer your questions. In the future, try posting about the ornamental alliums on the Perennials Forum or the Bulbs Forum since the Allium Forum seems to focus more on the edible alliums (onions, shallots, leeks, garlic, etc.).

I also planted Allium caeruleum this fall. They were tiny-to-small sized bulbs, but I think it is just natural for this species to have small bulbs. The plants grow from 12-24 inches tall and have bloom umbels roughly the size of a quarter, so I think the size of the bulbs was appropriate.

This species does not have the garden presence of 'Purple Sensation' and needs to be planted in relatively large groups for it to make an impact. They like full sun, well drained soil and a spot that remains relatively dry in the summer. Those conditions I just described would be ideal, but I am sure that this species is just forgiving and easy going as other allium types.

When happy, the bulbs should multiply and the plant should reseed.

Good luck with your new alliums and let us know how they do for you! :-)

Pizzuti, how are the Allium caeruleum growing for you? Mine are all up at least 12" tall with multiple leaves and growing like weeds. Still no sign of buds or bloom stalks yet, but it is probably still much too early for that.

Pizzuti: I had the same experience as you when I bought bulbs last fall. I had tried to grow them from seed and failed, but I came across the seeds at a sale and bought them. I also was concerned about the size but had no time to question it since I had to get them in the ground ASAP. They are now growing quite well, maybe foot tall and leafing out. The outcome will be a surprise. They are behind some crocuses and next to tulips, so I hope they combine well.

My allium caeruleum have sprouted and were looking great, but now are dying back at the tips of the leaves! Could this be because of our recent cold weather? Or could it be something else?