A bulbous perennial with dense globes of star-shaped, violet-purple flowers on sturdy stems in early summer. Height 1m. Spread 10cm. Full sun, well-drained soil. Hardy.
Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ is a stunning bulbous perennial that showcases dense globes of star-shaped, violet-purple flowers atop sturdy stems. This guide will help you plant and care for Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ to ensure it thrives in your garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The best time to plant Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ is in spring, once the ground has warmed up. Planting during this time allows the bulbs to establish their roots before the growing season begins, leading to robust flowering.
Autumn: Alternatively, you can plant your Allium in early autumn. This provides the bulbs with time to settle before the winter, promoting better growth in the following spring.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ flourishes in full sun. Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to encourage healthy growth and an impressive display of flowers.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Allium. These plants do not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so ensuring proper drainage is key to preventing bulb rot. Enhance drainage by incorporating organic matter, such as compost or grit, into the soil.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole for Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ that is three times the bulb’s diameter and about twice as deep. This allows sufficient space for the bulb to root and grow.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or other organic matter with the excavated soil to boost fertility and drainage. Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ will thrive in nutrient-rich soil, which supports healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Planting: Place the bulb of the plant in the prepared hole with the pointed end facing upwards. Cover the bulb with soil and gently firm the soil to remove any air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water the area thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the bulb. Ensure that the area drains well to avoid waterlogging.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ is relatively drought-tolerant. Water moderately during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can lead to bulb rot.
Dormant Season: During the dormant season, reduce watering significantly. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry, as Allium requires minimal moisture during this time.
Feeding
Spring: In early spring, apply a balanced fertiliser to give Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ a strong start to the growing season. This will support healthy new growth and encourage vibrant flower production.
Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer can encourage continued flowering and ensure that your Allium remains vigorous throughout its blooming period.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly deadhead your Allium by removing spent flower heads. This practice helps keep the plant tidy and can promote additional flowering.
Autumn Pruning: After the foliage has yellowed and died back in autumn, cut back the plant to ground level. This prepares the bulbs for winter dormancy and supports healthier growth in the following year.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips or compost, around the base of the plant in spring. This helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Winter: In winter, applying mulch around the base of Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ helps protect the bulbs from extreme cold and prevents frost heaving, ensuring they survive until the next growing season.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ typically has sturdy stems and a compact growth habit, so staking is rarely necessary. However, in very windy areas, light staking may be beneficial to prevent damage.
Final Tips
Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ is a low-maintenance perennial that offers spectacular blooms and attracts pollinators throughout the growing season. By planting it in full sun and well-drained soil and following this care guide, this Allium will reward you with stunning purple globes of flowers. Incorporate this elegant plant into garden borders or containers for a beautiful display that lasts all season long.
By understanding the best practices for planting and caring for Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation,’ you can enjoy a vibrant addition to your garden that enhances its beauty and supports local wildlife.
Select options 
Debbie P. (verified owner) –
Amazing plants and over the moon
Anonymous (verified owner) –