Comparing Allium varieties — notes from growing several

I've grown several varieties within the Allium family and have some observations to share. remarkable energy stored underground for a reliable annual performance varies noticeably between them, more than catalogue descriptions suggest. The care fundamentals are shared — planting at three times the depth of the bulb applies across all of them.

squirrel and mouse predation on newly planted bulbs affects some more than others, particularly in adverse conditions. I grow mine in a container for a doorstep or patio display which works well for most varieties. summer bulbs like gladiolus and allium extending the season is the clearest moment of differentiation between varieties — that's when the character of each comes through. Worth growing a few side by side if you have the space.