Allium kwakense

A deciduous, bulbous perennial producing short-lived, strap-shaped mid-green leaves and densely-packed, spherical heads of reddish purple star-shaped flowers on straight stems to 70cm (28in) tall in May and June. The foliage is often wilting and turning brown when the flowers appear, and for best visual effect the bulbs should be sited so that adjacent plants can grow to conceal the leaves as they die back. The flowers are extremely attractive to bees and other pollinating insects, making the plant a wonderful addition to a wildlife garden.