Allium decipiens

Allium decipiens is a species with multiple faces, found in the forests of Central Asia. Classified in the category of ornamental garlic, it is a rare and elegant bulbous plant. In spring, it offers a white or lavender-pink hemispherical umbel pierced with green nuances and composed of hundreds of small flowers. This garlic possesses the charm of wild plants. It is vigorous and perennial in well-drained soils. It appreciates the shade of the undergrowth, and tolerates summer drought well.

Originally from China and Central Asia, particularly Crimea, Allium decipiens grows in deciduous forests and undergrowth. This rarely cultivated species includes numerous subspecies distinguished mainly by the colour of the flowers. They range in nature from greenish-white to lavender-pink and are sometimes tinged with pale-lilac. The inflorescences, perched at 1m (3ft) in height, correspond to large rounded umbels measuring up to 8cm (3in) in diameter. They are made up of numerous star-shaped flowers with green central veins. This flowering occurs between May and June. The glossy foliage consists of 4 to 6 basal, linear, and thin leaves, with a bright green colour. The foliage sometimes yellows and disappears at the same time as the flowering, sometimes a little later. This is a good adaptation to hot and dry summer conditions.

Easy to cultivate, elegant, and light, Allium decipiens appreciates any type of well-drained moist soil during its growing period. It prefers a shady or morning sun location. Plant it in flower beds, borders, or pots on a balcony or patio. Use its flowers to add freshness to spring bouquets. Alternatively, use dried flowers in Christmas decorations for a unique touch. Plant them in groups of 5 among ornamental grasses and perennials, or under a cluster of flowering bushes. Plant them on the edge of the undergrowth with boxwood bushes trimmed into balls for a spectacular sculptural effect.