The Allium bulbs Gladiator are bulbs of one of the largest ornamental onions. On ramrod-straight stems of about 100 to 120 centimetres they carry globe-shaped flower heads of around 15 centimetres across in a rich purple. They tower above the rest of the border and return year after year in the same spot, slowly spreading as they do.

At size 16/18 these are hefty bulbs that each produce one large flower. Place them at the back of the border, between lower perennials or in a deep pot on the patio. With 5 bulbs you have a fine group or a well-filled pot, with 8 or 10 bulbs a striking accent in the border. With 16 or 20 bulbs you can spread them along a long border, and with 32, 40 or 64 bulbs you plant a large bed or a strip along the path; allow 3 to 5 bulbs per square metre. Combine them with other allium bulbs, for example a lower variety in front. You will find more greenery for outdoors among our outdoor plants.

When should you plant the Allium bulbs Gladiator?

Plant the Allium bulbs Gladiator in autumn, ideally from mid-October to the end of November, once the soil has dropped below 10 °C. As long as the ground is not frozen, you can keep planting into December. A cold period is needed for flowering, so spring planting is pointless.

When do the Allium bulbs Gladiator flower?

The Allium bulbs Gladiator flower in May and June, on the cusp of spring and summer. A flower head stays attractive for about three weeks. In a warm spot or in a pot they flower slightly earlier, after a cold spring later. As cut flowers they are a showpiece in a large vase. In a good spot they form new bulbs, so the group grows.

Care and tips Allium bulbs Gladiator

Plant the bulbs pointed end up, about 15 to 20 centimetres deep, and keep 25 to 30 centimetres between them. The soil should be open and drain well; on clay, add sand and compost. A pot should be at least 30 centimetres deep with a drainage layer at the bottom; you will find one among our outdoor pots and baskets. The broad leaves already die back around flowering time, so plant medium-height perennials in front. Only cut the foliage away once it is completely yellow, and give a little bulb fertiliser in spring for full flowering.

Water needs of the Allium bulbs Gladiator

In open ground the bulbs usually manage with rain. If the flower stems are growing during a dry spring, give a good splash of water once a week. In a pot, keep the soil evenly and lightly moist from the moment the shoots appear, with about one watering a week. After flowering the bulb hardly needs any water; above all, it must not stand wet in winter.

Light needs of the Allium bulbs Gladiator

Place them in full sun. There the flower heads grow largest and the long stems stay straight. A spot sheltered from strong wind stops the tall stems from leaning. In partial shade they still flower, but less profusely.

Are the Allium bulbs Gladiator toxic?

The Allium bulbs Gladiator are mildly toxic if ingested. Alliums are related to onion and garlic, which are harmful to dogs and cats in particular. Keep the bulbs out of reach of pets and young children. Wear garden gloves when planting if your skin is easily irritated.

How will my Allium bulbs Gladiator be shipped?

Your bulbs are carefully packed and shipped. That way they arrive safely and fresh from the grower.