star of persia
Allium cristophii
RHS AGM 1993
USDA zones4 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles dry to moist soil
Size12 to 24 inches tall6 to 18 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Pale lavender
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Star of persia (Allium cristophii) is a bulb for borders, cut flowers, containers, and cottage gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full or part sun and dry to moist soil of most types. The pale lavender flowers form a sphere up to 15 inches across that looks like a firework. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything. Bees and butterflies visit the blooms.
Pairs well with Blue fescue, Cheyenne Spirit echinacea, and Bouquet peony.
Native range
Europe, Corse, Krym, Sardegna, and 2 more places. See all 6
Europe, Corse, Krym, Sardegna, Sicilia, and Türkiye.