Allium christophii Bulbs – Stars of Persia, 8-Inch Metallic Globe, Deer Resistant, Fall Planting

Allium christophii — known as Stars of Persia — is one of the most exotic and captivating ornamental alliums, producing enormous globes up to 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter composed of dozens of individual star-shaped pinkish-purple florets, each with a distinctive metallic sheen that catches the light beautifully. The stunning flower heads appear in early summer above narrow, grey-green leaves, and the faded flowerheads hold their form exceptionally well in the border, providing months of structural interest and superb dried flower value. Naturalizes readily in well-drained soil, combines beautifully with ornamental grasses and Mediterranean plantings, and its allium scent keeps deer and rodents at a distance.

Why Gardeners Love It

• Enormous 8-inch diameter globes of star-shaped pinkish-purple florets with a metallic sheen
• Faded flowerheads hold form beautifully in the border for months
• Exceptional dried flower — long-lasting in arrangements
• Scent deters deer and rodents
• Splendid naturalizer in well-drained soil
• Combines beautifully with ornamental grasses, perennials, and Mediterranean plantings

Growing Details

• Type: Ornamental Allium
• Bloom color: Pinkish-purple with metallic sheen
• Flower diameter: Up to 8 inches (20 cm)
• Bloom time: Early summer
• Bulb size: 12–14+ cm
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained; excellent for Mediterranean and dry gardens
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–8
• Planting depth: 2× bulb height
• Spacing: 5–6 inches apart
• When to plant: Fall

Planting & Care

Plant bulbs pointed tip up in full sun, well-drained soil in fall. Fertilize with bulb food at planting. Plant in small groups among medium-height herbaceous perennials — neighboring plants help mask the strap-like leaves which fade by bloom time. After blooming, leave flowerheads in place for border structure, or harvest and dry for indoor arrangements. Naturalizes readily when left undisturbed.