Allium 'Forelock' Bulbs – Unique Bicolor Ornamental Onion, Fragrant, Deer Resistant, Fall Planting

Allium 'Forelock' is a truly one-of-a-kind ornamental allium that will stop every visitor in their tracks. Unlike the classic round globes of standard ornamental alliums, Forelock produces egg-shaped burgundy-red flower heads with a tuft of white flowers protruding several inches above — like a wild lock of hair — giving the plant an unforgettable, almost whimsical silhouette. As blooming progresses, the white stamens extend further and create a luminous white haze over the deep burgundy base, producing a captivating two-tone bicolor effect that evolves throughout the season. Pleasantly fragrant, deer resistant, and a must-have for the adventurous gardener who wants something genuinely different.

Why Gardeners Love It

• Utterly unique — egg-shaped burgundy-red head with a tuft of white flowers on top, like a floral lock of hair
• Color evolves as it blooms: deep burgundy with a growing white haze from protruding stamens
• Pleasantly fragrant — an added sensory delight
• Deer resistant and attractive to bees and butterflies
• 24-inch height with large 12+ cm bulbs — vigorous and impactful
• A conversation piece and collector's allium

Growing Details

• Type: Ornamental Allium
• Bloom color: Burgundy-red with white protruding stamens (bicolor)
• Bloom time: June
• Height: 24 inches
• Bulb size: 12+ cm
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained — avoid soggy soil
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–8 (containers: bring indoors in zones 3–7)
• Planting depth: 4–8 inches
• Spacing: 6–8 inches apart
• When to plant: Fall (when soil is 60°F or cooler)

Planting & Care

Plant bulbs pointed tip up in full sun, well-drained soil in fall once soil temperature drops to 60°F or below. Water well once after planting — no further watering needed until spring. During bloom season, water only if no rain for 3–5 days. After blooming, do not cut foliage immediately — allow it to yellow and die back naturally before removing. Bulbs go dormant after and need no watering until the following spring.