Allium stipitatum Mount Everest

Allium stipitatum 'Mount Everest', or ornamental garlic, is a rare and elegant bulbous plant. In spring, it displays rounded and light white umbels pierced with green nuances, composed of hundreds of small flowers. This variety has a strong stem that allows it to withstand the wind, like tall grasses. It is a plant with a wild charm that has retained the memory of its oriental origins. It is vigorous and durable in well-drained soils, in the sun, and tolerates summer drought well.

Originally from Central Asia, Allium stipitatum grows on rocky slopes and high-altitude meadows. The 'Mount Everest' variety is a recent creation. The inflorescences, perched at 1m (3ft) in height, correspond to large round umbels that can measure up to 10cm (4in) in diameter, and are made up of many pure white flowers. This flowering period is between May and June. The foliage consists of 4 to 6 wide basal leaves with a grey-green hue. The leaves are somewhat hairy. The foliage turns yellow and disappears at the same time as the flowering appears, which is a good adaptation to hot and dry summer conditions.

Easy to grow, the majestic Allium 'Mount Everest' appreciates any type of moist but well-drained soil during its growing period. It prefers a sunny location. It can be planted in beds, borders, and pots on a balcony or patio. Add a unique touch to your bouquets with its fresh or dried flowers. Plant them in groups of 5, nestled among ornamental grasses, perennials, or near roses or yellow broom. Plant them with topiary boxwood balls for a spectacular sculptural effect.

Handy vegetable gardening tip: plant some ornamental garlic in the middle of your strawberry plants to protect them from fungal diseases. They will provide a pleasant flowering that is sometimes lacking among vegetables.