Allium rotundum subsp. jajlae

Allium rotundum subsp. jajlae, also known as the violet-flowered garlic or round-headed leek, is a tall ornamental garlic, vividly coloured from raspberry-red to ruby. It catches everyone's attention in the garden. Similar to rocambole garlic (A. scorodoprasum) in its overall appearance, this bulbous plant grows in large colonies but does not produce bulblets in its inflorescence. Its dense and elongated umbels are composed of small star-shaped flowers in purplish tones bordered with pink, carried on uneven petioles. They bloom at the top of a sturdy stem facing the wind. It is an extraordinary border plant, and its flowers are beautiful in bouquets. 

Allium rotundum belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is a species found in a vast area ranging from Spain to Morocco, Iran, and western Russia. The denomination of the subspecies jajlae is controversial, with some official sources considering it a synonym of A. rotundum. The former denomination is A. scorodoprasum subsp. rotundum. It is a bulbous plant that prefers light and rather dry soil, with a tendency towards limestone, clay, and loam, and is poor in organic matter (humus, compost).

This rotundum ornamental garlic produces up to 50 underground bulbs and bulbils, which are small and ovoid, allowing it to grow in beautiful clumps. Each bulb produces a stiff, cylindrical stem with leaves that extend to the middle. The aromatic leaves, resembling grass, are linear, flat, and smooth, measuring up to 40cm (16in) long. They are edible and used in Crimean Greek cuisine. The flowering is popular with pollinating insects. It takes place between May and early July, depending on the climate. The floral stems rise up to 60 to 80cm (24 to 32in) from the ground, depending on growing conditions. Each stem carries an irregular oval inflorescence surrounded by membranous bracts. This inflorescence is composed of 100 to 200 small star-shaped flowers tightly packed together. Each bell-shaped flower measures up to 7mm in diameter. The petals are a purple-red colour with a pale-pink margin. The pedicels that bear the flowers are unequal: at the base of the inflorescence, they are shorter and reflexed. The foliage yellows and disappears after flowering, which is a good adaptation to hot and dry summer conditions. This plant reproduces mainly through the production of numerous bulbils.

Relatively easy to grow, Allium rotundum subsp. jajlae appreciates any type of moist soil during its growing period, but always well-drained. It loves full sun. Used in borders or as edging, it can also be grown in pots to enjoy its beautiful flowering on a balcony or patio. Enhance your bouquets with its fresh or dried flowers, where they will add a colourful and unusual touch. Plant it in groups of 5, nestled among medium-sized grasses, tall and light perennials like fennel, or near broom plants. It will have a stunning effect in a wildflower meadow, alongside poppies, damask nigellas, and other centaureas. For a spectacular sculptural effect, pair it with Buxus balls. This garlic can also be grown in the vegetable garden to supply cut flowers.

Handy vegetable tip: plant a few ornamental garlics in the middle of strawberry plants to protect them from fungal diseases and add some pleasant blooms that are sometimes lacking among the vegetables.