Sicilian Honey Garlic Allium Bulbs

Nectaroscodrum Siculum

Sicilian Honey Garlic, also known as Nectaroscordum siculum, is one of the most distinctive looking allium varieties, with relaxed, nodding bell shaped flowers blooming in May to June.

It's definitely not your average allium!

The leafless stem of the Sicilian Honey Garlic stands proud at 90cm with attractive bell-shaped flowers nodding down like an umbrella from each umbel.

Each umbel produces up to 30 of the delicate white-cream flowers which show flashes of mauve and green tints at the base. And it just keeps giving; its late spring early summer blooms give way to decorative seed pods which grow erect once blooms die back in late summer.

Favoured for its more laid-back appearance compared to other architectural alliums, the Sicilian Honey Garlic's scented leaves are surprisingly agreeable right through to when they die down towards the end of summer. Plant in clumps between other herbaceous plants in the border creates contrast and structure whilst also camouflaging those withering leaves.

It also works particularly well in flower borders and beds or a wildflower meadow-style garden.

Why we like it

• Distinctive and highly unusual allium, with laid-back nodding blooms
• Drooping flowers turn into erect shuttlecock-like seedheads as they fade

Planting know-how

• Plant in autumn in full sun, although they will tolerate partial shade
• Plant bulbs 10cm deep, 10-15cm apart
• Likes moderately fertile, well-drained soil

Also known as Mediterranean Bells, Sicilian Honey Garlic is native to the Mediterranean and Bulgaria, where it grows in damp and shady wooded areas.

Although commonly used as a bold garden ornamental, it is said to be used as a seasoning in its native Bulgaria. The attractive seed heads also dry well, adding a twist to dried flower arrangements.