All of the Alliums that I am familiar with should be planted in the fall, November here, probably late August-early September where you are.

For ornamental alliums autumn planting is best but I bought a load of reduced bulbs and have only recently finished planting them. Most seem to be coming away fine. Edible alliums or onions to eat are planted in spring.

I wouldn't expect too much of the ornamentals this year, Scotsgran, but they'll probably come back double next year.

Thats what I expected but I can see lots of flowers about to burst open. I find it hard to pass by a bargain. I got these reduced to 50p some of which had been £2.99 or £3.99 each. The bulbs were all firm and healthy looking so I took the chance.

Sounds like it worked!

Hopefully I can show you soon. Sorry Megi I did not see you had Christophii written there. It is definitely an autumn planter.