other better known Ornithogalum species. Plants are extremely
rare in cultivation, but seeds can be found with specialised
nurseries on the internet.
Allium. The genus Allium contains approximately 850 species.
The centre of Allium diversity is in the Mediterranean/Middle
East region although other smaller centres of diversity are found
in North America and Eastern Asia. The genus is perhaps best
known from the handful of species that make up the edible food
crops we’re all familiar with, e.g. onions (Allium cepa), leeks
(Allium ampeloprasum), garlic (Allium sativum), scallion (Allium
fistulosum ), and chives (Allium schoenoprasum); but many more species are known for their
ornamental value and are thus dubbed the “ornamental onions”.
Some of the showiest
examples are Allium
cristophii (Stars
of Persia), Allium
sphaerocephalon
(drumstick allium)
(middle), Allium
caeruleum (right)
and Allium schubertii
(left).
There are many more Mediterranean bulbs that are worth a mention but that would take this whole
edition to discuss! If you want to know more about Mediterranean bulbs or simply have other
garden related questions feel free to contact me at: [email protected]
Gardens tailor made
to suit your needs
www.mediterragarden.es
Tel: 630 477 295
[email protected]
Avenida del Reino 1, 3a - 30130 Beniel (Murcia)
25