Culture
Easily grown in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun, but appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Tolerates a wide range of soils. Performs well in sandy soils. Add compost to clay soils, as needed, to improve drainage. Bulbs are best planted in fall. Deadhead after blooming to discourage unwanted seeding in the garden. Divide in the spring or early fall.
Noteworthy Characteristics
The genus Allium contains over 700 species of bulbous or rhizomatous plants. All possess oniony smelling flowers and foliage. Some species are grown for culinary purposes and others for ornamental purposes. Plants typically produce showy flower umbels on naked scapes rising above a clump of linear grass-like leaves. Ornamental alliums generally range in height from 3” to 4-6’ tall.
Genus name comes from the classical Latin name for garlic.
'Forelock' is a bulbous ornamental onion that is grown for its spring bloom of large, egg-shaped, maroon-purple flower heads, each with a distinctive and unusual forelock (topknot or tuft) of elongated florets. Strap-shaped, basal green leaves form a clump of foliage in spring. In mid-spring (May in St. Louis), flowering stems rise up (to 24-30" tall) topped with the unique flowers. Flowers are fragrant.
Problems
Bulb rot may occur in overly moist soils. Watch for mildew, rust and leaf spots. Thrips are an occasional problem. Deer and rabbits tend to avoid this plant.
Uses
A striking accent for mixed borders and cottage gardens.