The Drumstick Alliums (Allium sphaerocephalon), also known as the round-headed leek, garlic, or ball-head onion, are bulbous herbaceous perennials from the Amaryllis family. They boast numerous intriguing names.
These plants are native to various parts of Europe, excluding the northern and western regions such as Scotland, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, Ireland, and the Baltic States. Their natural habitat stretches into northern Africa and extends to western Asia, reaching as far as Iran.
Interestingly, they have also established themselves in New York State in the United States. In England, they predominantly grow wild in the Avon Gorge area, earning the local nickname, the Bristol onions.
Gardeners love Drumstick Alliums for their stunning, spherical flower heads. These vibrant purple blooms sit atop tall stems, reaching up to 50 cm in height. Each head can hold hundreds of tiny flowers, creating a truly spectacular display.
The plant’s scientific name, Allium sphaerocephalon, comes from the Greek words for “sphere” and “head,” perfectly describing its unique shape. This beauty has even earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s prestigious Award of Garden Merit.
Don’t mistake Drumstick Alliums (Allium sphaerocephalon) for drumstick flowers (Scabiosa stellata), which are also called starflowers. Though both plants have similarly shaped flower clusters, the starflower belongs to the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae) and is quite different from the Drumstick Allium.
Likewise, Craspedia globosa shares the common name drumstick flower. However, despite the name, it is an entirely separate plant species.
Drumstick Alliums: Striking yet Potentially Invasive Garden Addition
Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net)., Allium sphaerocephalon 2, CC BY-SA 4.0
Drumstick alliums are a distinctive and striking addition that brings charm to any garden. Characterized by its egg-shaped bulbs, this plant stands out for its unusual structure and vibrant blooms. However, it comes with a caveat: its tendency to spread.
Beneath the outer layer of its stem, small bulblets often form, increasing the plant’s potential for invasiveness. Gardeners should be cautious when cultivating it to prevent unwanted spread.
These striking plants can tower up to 36 inches tall and offer a long-lasting bloom show from late spring through late summer.
The flowers of the Drumstick Allium grow on a slender scape that can reach up to 50 cm in height. At the top, a spherical to egg-shaped cluster, or umbel, ranging from 1–6 cm in diameter, bursts forth with tightly packed reddish-purple flowers. This relatively small bloom atop the tall, thin stem gives the plant its signature “drumstick” appearance.
Occasionally, individual flowers may be replaced by bulbils, further contributing to the plant’s reproductive vigor and potential to become invasive. While its striking beauty and architectural form make it a favorite for ornamental borders, gardeners should consider its growth habits and take measures to control its spread.
If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance with a hint of the wild, the Drumstick Allium is a wonderful choice—handle it with care to keep its charm contained.
Best Growing Conditions for Drumstick Alliums
Kor!An (Андрей Корзун), Allium sphaerocephalon 01, CC BY-SA 3.0
Drumstick Alliums thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8. To ensure optimal growth, plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil.
For the best results, enrich your soil with compost or aged manure. This will not only improve drainage but also provide essential nutrients for healthy plant growth.
Planting Time
The best time to plant Drumstick Allium bulbs is in the fall, at least two months before the first frost. This gives the roots time to establish themselves freely after which the plant begins its growth in spring. Make sure to plant them at least 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) apart to allow for healthy growth.
Propagating Drumstick Alliums
You can propagate these plants from seeds, divisions, or bulbs.
anonymous, Allium sphaerocephalon, CC BY-SA 3.0
Propagating Your Garden’s Beauty: A Guide to Seed Propagation
Collecting Seeds
Have you ever noticed tiny new plants popping up in your garden, seemingly out of nowhere? This magical phenomenon is often the work of self-seeding plants, and many ornamental alliums, including drumstick alliums, are masters of this trick.
The Natural Seeder
Like their edible cousins, onions, and garlic, ornamental alliums including drumstick alliums, are prolific self-seeders. This means that, without any intervention, they’ll scatter their seeds around the garden, resulting in a delightful surprise of new plants the following year. While this natural process can be charming, it can also lead to overcrowding.
Harvesting Seeds
To control the spread and ensure a reliable supply of seeds for future plantings, consider harvesting the seed heads in the fall. Once the flowers have faded and the seed heads have turned brown and dry, carefully snip them off the plant.
Gently rub the seed head parts with your fingers to extract the seeds. The chaff will fall away, leaving you with viable seeds. Store these seeds in a dark, cool, and dry place, such as an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cultivation
Sowing the Seeds
Once the threat of frost has passed in the spring, you can sow your allium seeds. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Prepare the Soil: Alliums thrive in well-draining soil. If your garden soil is heavy clay, you can amend it with compost or sand. This improves the drainage.
Sow the Seeds: You can start this process by scattering the seeds on the soil surface. Then, slightly cover them with a thin layer of the same soil.
Water Gently: Water thoroughly when planting, and ensure the seeds remain moist throughout the germination process.
Thin the Seedlings: Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to a distance of about 6 inches apart to allow for optimal growth.
Patience is Key: Remember that it may take a year or two for your newly sown allium seeds to bloom.
By following these simple steps, you can successfully propagate your ornamental alliums and enjoy their beauty for years to come.
Dividing Matured Plants: A Simple Way to Multiply Your Garden’s Beauty
Ornamental alliums, including drumstick alliums, are not only stunning additions to any garden, but they’re also surprisingly easy to propagate. Division is one of the most effective and preferred methods for growing these plants.
When to Divide
The best time to divide your alliums is in the fall after the foliage has died back. This gives the divided bulbs ample time to establish themselves before the next growing season.
Why Divide
Dividing your alliums offers several benefits:
Healthier Plants: Over time, clumps of allium bulbs can become overcrowded. Dividing them can help to rejuvenate the plants and promote healthier growth.
Increased Plant Numbers: Division allows you to multiply your allium collection by creating new plants from the divided bulbs.
Pest and Disease Control: Dividing can help to reduce the risk of pest and disease problems that can accumulate in overcrowded clumps.
How to Divide
Dig Up the Clump: Carefully dig up the entire clump of allium bulbs, making sure to dig deep enough to get all the roots.
Separate the Bulbs: Carefully separate the cluster of bulbs, breaking them into individual bulbs or smaller groups.
Replant the Bulbs: Plant the divided bulbs in well-drained soil, spacing them about 6 inches apart. Water them thoroughly after planting.
Planting the Divided Bulbs
Prepare the Soil: Ensure the soil is well-draining. If your garden has heavy clay soil, you can add compost or sand to improve drainage.
Plant the Bulbs: Plant the bulbs at the same depth they were originally growing and water them thoroughly.
By following these simple steps, you can easily divide your ornamental alliums and enjoy a beautiful display of blooms for years to come.
Starting with Transplants or Bulbs: A Simple Guide to Cultivating This Beauty
Ornamental alliums, including drumstick alliums, are a stunning addition to any garden, known for their vibrant, spherical blooms that attract pollinators. Whether you’re starting from bulbs or transplants, planting these beauties is a straightforward process.
Planting from Bulbs
When to Plant:
Spring Planting: Plant allium bulbs in the spring, as soon as the soil can be worked.
Fall Planting: Fall planting is also an option, allowing the bulbs to establish roots before winter.
Planting Steps:
Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil in the desired planting area and incorporate a balanced bulb fertilizer according to package directions.
Dig the Holes: Dig holes that are about three times the depth of the bulb.
Position the Bulbs: Place the bulbs in the holes with the pointed end facing upward.
Spacing: Space the bulbs 4-6 inches apart.
Cover and Water: Gently cover the bulbs with soil and water them thoroughly.
Storing Bulbs for Later Planting:
If you can’t plant your bulbs immediately, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a basement or garage. Ensure they are dry and free from moisture to prevent rotting.
Planting from Transplants
Planting allium transplants is a relatively simple process.
Choose a Suitable Location: Choose a bright, sunny spot with soil that drains well.
Prepare the Planting Hole: Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the transplant.
Plant the Transplant: Gently place the transplant in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Water Thoroughly: Water the newly planted transplant deeply.
By following these simple steps, you can successfully plant your ornamental alliums and enjoy their beautiful blooms for years to come.
Caring for your Drumstick Alliums
Watering Your Drumstick Alliums
Drumstick alliums are a fantastic choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant. These alliums can thrive in areas with less-than-ideal watering conditions.
Here’s a quick guide to watering your drumstick alliums:
Moderate Watering: While drumstick alliums are relatively drought-tolerant, they prefer regular watering, especially during dry spells. Aim to water your plants deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings.
Flowering Period: As your drumstick alliums enter their flowering stage, it’s crucial to maintain consistent moisture levels. Adequate water supply during this period will encourage abundant flower production.
Avoid Waterlogging: While regular watering is important, it’s equally crucial to avoid waterlogged soil. Too much moisture can cause root rot and promote fungal infections.
Fertilizing Your Drumstick Alliums
Proper fertilization is essential for the healthy growth and vibrant blooms of your drumstick alliums.
Here’s a simple fertilizing routine to follow:
Planting Time: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer or an all-purpose 10-10-10 granular fertilizer at the time of planting. This initial dose provides essential nutrients to stimulate root development and establish a strong foundation for your plants.
Spring Feeding: As your drumstick alliums emerge in spring, top-dress them with a layer of compost or specialized bulb fertilizer. This supplemental feeding provides the necessary nutrients to support robust stem growth and the development of large, eye-catching blooms.
By following this fertilization regimen, you can ensure your drumstick alliums thrive and produce a stunning display of color in your garden.
Pruning Your Drumstick Alliums: A Post-Bloom Care Guide
Once your drumstick alliums have finished flowering, it’s time to give them a little post-bloom care. Pruning is an important step to ensure healthy bulb growth and prevent self-seeding.
When to Prune
Late Summer or Early Fall: This is the ideal time to prune your drumstick alliums.
Why Prune
Prevent Self-Seeding: By removing the spent flower stems, you can prevent the plants from self-seeding and becoming invasive.
Promote Bulb Growth: Pruning redirects the plant’s energy towards the development of healthy bulbs for the following year.
How to Prune
Use Sharp Tools: Use clean, sharp hand pruners or scissors to make precise cuts.
Cut Low: Trim the flower stem as close to the base of the plant as you can.
Clean Up: Remove any dead or yellowing foliage around the base of the plant.
Water and Fertilize: Give your alliums a good watering and apply a balanced fertilizer to replenish the soil.
Exceptions
If you’re growing your drumstick alliums for seed production, you should wait until the seed heads have fully matured before cutting them back.
By following these simple pruning tips, you can ensure your drumstick alliums remain healthy and vibrant year after year.
Winterizing Your Drumstick Alliums: A Guide to Cold Weather Care
Protecting Your Alliums from Harsh Winters
If you live in a region with extremely cold winter temperatures, it’s important to provide winter protection for your drumstick alliums. Here’s a simple method to safeguard your plants:
Apply Mulch: Once the foliage has completely died back, cover the dormant plants with a thick layer (8-10 cm or 3-4 inches) of organic mulch, such as straw, pine needles, or shredded leaves. This insulating layer will help protect the bulbs from freezing temperatures.
Remove Mulch in Spring: After the last spring frost, carefully remove the mulch to allow the emerging shoots to reach sunlight.
Post-Bloom Care
If you’re growing drumstick allium, note that these unique plants have a specific life cycle. After blooming, they die back completely and enter dormancy for the rest of the summer. Allow the foliage to turn completely yellow before removing it. This process lets the plant store nutrients for the next growing season, ensuring healthy blooms year after year.
Troubleshooting Your Drumstick Alliums: Common Issues and Solutions
While drumstick alliums are generally hardy and low-maintenance, they can occasionally encounter some common pests and diseases. Here’s a guide to help you identify and address these issues:
Common Pests and Diseases
Onion Maggot:
Symptoms: Tunneling into bulbs and stems, causing rot and plant death.
Prevention:
Crop rotation
Prompt removal of old foliage
Floating row covers after planting
Treatment:
Beneficial nematodes
Neem oil treatment before planting or storage
Fusarium and Basal Rot:
Symptoms: Rotting bulbs and roots.
Prevention:
Well-drained soil
Discarding diseased bulbs
Proper planting depth and spacing
Crop rotation
Regular division of congested clumps
Leaf Spot and Botrytis:
Symptoms: Fungal diseases causing leaf spots and head rot.
Prevention:
Proper spacing for good air circulation
Prompt removal and destruction of affected foliage
Avoid overhead watering
Allow plants to dry between irrigations
Treatment:
Fungicides (use with caution and follow label instructions)
By following these preventative measures and timely treatments, you can keep your drumstick alliums healthy and thriving.
Quick Reference Guide
| Botanical Name | Allium sphaerocephalon |
| Common Name | Drumstick alliums |
| Family | Amaryllis |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 4-8 |
| Plant Type | Bulbous herbaceous perennials |
| Exposure | Full sun to part shade |
| Soil Type and pH | Sandy, loose (pH 5.5-6.5) |
| Mature Height and Spread | Height: 24-36 inches; Spread: 18 inches |
| Bloom Time | Summer |
| Flower Colors | Purple/Lavender Red/Burgundy |
| Origin | Various parts of Europe, excluding the northern and western regions |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, drumstick alliums can spread over time. They reproduce through bulb offsets and sometimes self-seed, gradually forming larger clusters if left undisturbed.
Drumstick alliums typically grow to a height of 50-60 cm, making them a striking addition to gardens.
Plant drumstick alliums in the fall, a few weeks before the first frost, to allow the bulbs to establish roots before winter.
Yes, drumstick alliums are edible, but they are primarily grown for ornamental purposes due to their unique appearance
Avoid planting alliums near legumes like beans and peas, as they can inhibit each other’s growth.
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