Alliums, known for their striking globes of long-lasting blooms, are a must-have in any spring garden. Here we explore the 10 best allium varieties you can plant now to ensure a showstopping display of flowers come spring.

1. Allium giganteum – Living up to its name, this variety sports towering flower heads that can reach up to 6 feet tall. Its purple, star-shaped flowers cluster into mesmerizing globes.

2. Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ – An early bloomer with deep purple, almost violet flowers. This allium creates a visual impact with its spherical clusters that span 4 inches across.

3. Allium ‘Globemaster’ – Known for some of the largest blooms among alliums, this hybrid produces stunning violet flowers that can measure up to 10 inches in diameter.

4. Allium cristophii – Displaying star-shaped amethyst flowers, the distinctive spiky blooms give a unique texture and are ideal for dried flower arrangements.

5. Allium sphaerocephalon – Commonly called drumstick allium, this variety features small, egg-shaped flowers that start green and mature to a deep maroon-purple.

6. Allium caeruleum – Unlike other alliums, the Azureum variety bears bright blue flowers that add a rare color pop to your garden palette.

7. Allium schubertii – The firework-like explosion of bloom makes Schubert’s Allium one of the most unusual varieties with its irregularly spaced and varying-length petals.

8. Allium ‘Mount Everest’ – Offering a contrasting display of pristine white against typical purples and blues, Mount Everest stands tall and regal in the spring border.

9. Allium moly – Known as golden garlic, this species bears bright yellow blooms that shine like little suns and provide a warm contrast amongst cooler shades in the garden.

10. Allium nigrum – This species stands out with white flowers highlighted by green ovaries at the center of each blossom – a subtle distinction that charms onlookers.

When planting any of these allium varieties, choose a spot with full sun to part shade and well-drained soil. Planting in autumn will allow the bulbs to establish themselves over the winter months for an outstanding spring show.