Alliums are in the same family as garlic, onions, chives, and shallots. This makes gardeners wonder if they should include them in their ornamental gardening plans, as it conjures up images of supermarket produce. But because good garden designs are often made up of contrasting shapes, Alliums rounded blooms make for great drama and interest in the garden. The Allium group gets more popular annually, and no wonder, from over 300 species to choose. They amaze everyone, and few plants create this kind of wow in the garden. We will be adding many new varieties in the near future. The blossoms of Gladiator are as large as soccer balls atop tall stalks and the big stars of the late spring garden. As Alliums do not like wet feet, find a sunny location where the soil drains well or try to improve the drainage. The bulbs will rot in wet areas. Aside from that, almost no maintenance is required. Dig, divide, and replant bulbs after a few years of decreasing flower production.