When you think about Alliums, chances are the image of a giant purple ball comes to mind. But as Mitchell Porschen, account manager at All I Am, explains, there’s so much more to explore. From delicate whites and soft pinks to striking yellows, the Allium family is vast and versatile. And All I Am isn’t just about bringing you Alliums—it’s about elevating the floral experience with carefully curated varieties.
An Allium Renaissance by All I Am
“People often just ask for ‘a purple Allium,’ not knowing there’s a whole world beyond that,” Mitchell says. He points to the market’s focus on well-known names like Allium Gladiator, Violet Beauty, or Purple Rain but emphasizes the beauty of lesser-known options. Think of Allium Silverspring's understated charm or the dramatic flair of Allium Schubertii.
The brand, working closely with growers Sjon and Sjaak van Berkel in the Netherlands and their Spanish nursery Flores Andalucía, is on a mission to bring exclusive, high-quality Allium varieties to the forefront. “We’re moving away from mass-market options with the common names to focus on truly unique selections,” Mitchell shares.
So, what three varieties would Mitchell pick to show and wow the world?
Allium Globemaster: A Giant in the Floral World
The Allium Globemaster isn’t just another flower—it’s a floral statement. Known for its massive spherical blooms that can measure over 20 cm across, this variety combines size with sophistication. Each flower head is packed with hundreds of star-shaped florets, creating a textured and almost architectural look.
Florists love Globemaster for its versatility. While it commands attention as a standalone feature in arrangements, it also pairs beautifully with more understated blooms. Its purple hue is vibrant but not overpowering, making it a flexible choice for everything from modern designs to classic bouquets. Additionally, its long vase life—often lasting up to two weeks—makes it a favorite for both florists and their customers.
Globemaster also shines in XXL bouquets, an area where All I Am thrives. Its bold presence works perfectly alongside Agapanthus or even other Allium varieties, creating layers of texture and depth that stand out in large-scale arrangements.
Allium Schubertii: A Starburst of Creativity
If you’re looking for a flower that breaks all the rules, Allium Schubertii is the answer. Often described as the 'firework' of the Allium world, Schubertii’s starburst-shaped blooms are nothing short of mesmerizing. The flower’s unique form consists of long stems radiating outward, each tipped with a tiny floret, creating an almost otherworldly appearance.
Schubertii is a dream for florists seeking something out of the ordinary. Its airy, open structure makes it ideal for contemporary designs, where negative space is just as important as the blooms themselves. It pairs beautifully with grasses, minimalist greenery, or even as a solo star in modern arrangements.
Despite its delicate look, Schubertii is surprisingly hardy. It holds up well in various settings, making it a practical choice for florists who want to push creative boundaries. Whether used in avant-garde installations or as an unexpected twist in traditional bouquets, the spider-like Schubertii adds a sense of whimsy and movement that’s hard to replicate. And did you know Schubertii is also available in a pink and in a white variety?
Allium Jackpot: Gladiator 2.0
Dubbed 'Gladiator 2.0', the Allium Jackpot takes everything you love about the classic Gladiator and elevates it. With larger blooms and a stronger stem, Jackpot is designed to make a lasting impression. Its rich purple tone adds depth and drama to bouquets, but it’s the flower’s enhanced durability that truly sets it apart.
As Mitchell explains, Jackpot represents a shift toward quality over quantity: “We want florists to have access to flowers that stand out—not just for their size, but for their overall impact.” The sturdy stems of Jackpot ensure it remains upright and impressive in even the most elaborate designs.
For florists aiming to create high-end arrangements, Jackpot offers the reliability needed for intricate installations. Whether used in towering centerpieces or bold bridal bouquets, its structural integrity and vibrant color make it a go-to choice for those who want to make a statement.
Inspiration for Florists: Alliums in Design
Alliums aren’t just for the garden—they’re a designer’s dream. On their website, All I Am highlights the versatility of these flowers in XXL bouquets. Pair the bold purple of a Globemaster with airy Agapanthus, or let Allium Schubertii shine in minimalist arrangements. Their 'Ode to the Allium' showcases creative ways to play with height, texture, and color in floral designs.
Another trend worth exploring is the use of Alliums as a single-flower focus. Globemaster, with its commanding size, works beautifully on its own in a tall vase. Meanwhile, Schubertii’s unique shape can be showcased in transparent containers, allowing its intricate structure to take center stage. For florists looking to push the envelope, combining multiple Allium varieties in a single arrangement offers an opportunity to highlight their distinct shapes and sizes.
Beyond the Flower: A Commitment to Quality
All I Am’s passion for Alliums goes hand in hand with their dedication to quality. By collaborating with expert growers, the brand ensures each bloom meets the highest standards. Their goal is clear: to inspire florists, wholesalers, and retailers to embrace Alliums not just as a staple but as a statement.
Mitchell’s parting thought sums it up: “It’s about more than just offering flowers. It’s about creating an experience where florists and their customers see Alliums not as a simple addition but as the centerpiece they deserve to be.”
So next time you think of Alliums, think beyond purple. Think All I Am. With options like Globemaster, Jackpot, and Schubertii, there’s an Allium for every design, every occasion, and every florist looking to stand out.
All photos by All I Am and @All I Am Flowers, unless otherwise noted.
