What is it? Ornamental alliums' classy, laid-back cousin. Where alliums are pert and perfectly spherical, nectaroscordum is loose and insouciant. Each of the individual flowers that make up the flower head is large, and droops elegantly, borne on statuesque 120cm stems. Antique colouring – rose, cream and soft green – makes this a particularly subtle beauty.
Plant it with? Other plants that exude that shabby-chic air, such as lavenders and dark, late tulips 'Queen of Night' and 'Black Hero'. Irises respond to similar conditions and flower around the same time. Try soft purple I. 'Candy Rock'.
And where? They will do best in a light, sandy soil in full sun (although they will tolerate partial shade), and look good in a gravel garden.
Any drawbacks? Where they find themselves at home, they will self-seed. Not much of a drawback, is it? You may have to do a little extra weeding if they go where you don't want them, but it's a fairly luxurious problem to have.
What else does it do? Bizarrely, as the droopy flowers fade, they about-turn and stretch upwards. The seedheads have pointy tops on upright stems, and resemble a little cluster of toadstools. If you squint.
Buy it Buy 20 bulbs for £8.99, or 50 for £13.98 (prices include p&p). To order, call 0330 333 6856, quoting ref GUA593, or visit our Reader Offers page. Delivery in October.