This close cousin of the edible onion and garlic is one of the most dramatic plants I grow. Gargantuan ball-shaped flower heads comprised of hundreds of starry blooms are supported on 3 foot tall stalks with long, strappy leaves. Allium giganticum is a superstar in the early summer garden.

Not only are these bulbs gorgeous in the garden, but the flowers are excellent for drying. Just hang them upside down in a garage or storage room. They do have a slight onion or garlic smell when you cut them or bruise them, but the smell dissipates quickly and you’re left with striking flowers for dried arrangements.