They resemble drumsticks used to make the powerful sounds of timpani, which are most often found in symphony orchestras today. However, ornamental garlic inflorescences play a different role in the garden.Although you should not expect sound effects from them, they can intrigue and delight us with their remarkable beauty.
The delightful spectacle begins in early summer. First, a tubular green shoot grows above the bed, depending on the species and variety, from 10 to even 160 cm long.Then, at its end, a spherical inflorescence up to 25 cm in diameter develops. The most magnificent and the highest inflorescences develop Krzysztof's garlic (whitish) Allium christophii and the huge Allium giganteum, e.g. the 'Globemaster' variety. The inflorescence shoots from the Asian steppes are so perfectly built and strong that they withstand even stronger gusts of wind without harm.
Inflorescences of decorative garlic are unique and very effective. However, a discount full of colored balls would certainly be the result of an ill-considered decision.Like any soloist, garlic needs partners that can be distinguished by habit or mild green leaves.Ideal neighbors are, for example, the humble grasshopper and catnip. Their densely arranged flowers create striking colorful spots around the flowering stems of garlic.
The season from June to August is marked by the purple capitate garlic Allium sphaerocephalon and the red-pink comb garlic Allium carinatum. Contrary to those who like the fertile, humus soil of summer flowers, most types of garlic are best suited for a slightly limestone and permeable substrate.
Garlic that fits like a glove
A great place for garlic is the second discount plan. The lower companion perennials of the first row serve to some extent to support his tall flower stems.Besides, they quite effectively cover wide leaves, which turn yellow during flowering.After flowering, the inflorescence balls resemble large openwork blanks. Dried ones can further decorate the bed, and after cutting they are suitable for dry bouquets.
Beautiful perennials in the lead role
In any case, the leaves are left intact so that the bulbs can accumulate food supplies for the next season.Leaves of some varieties, such as 'Ambassador', keep a fresh green color even after a period of flowering.
