The Alliums of Flanders Fields? Don’t you mean the Poppies of Flanders Fields? No, in late May and June, Flanders Fields is transforming into a sea of purple Alliums.
Last autumn, 50,000 Allium bulbs (ornamental onions) were planted at various famous and lesser-known First World War sites, from Tyne Cot Cemetery to Langemark’s German Military Cemetery, from Kemmel to the Iron Memorial in Nieuwpoort. The flowers will bloom in May and June.
What’s the Allium Action all about?
It’s to spread the message that we need to take care of biodiversity in Flanders by looking after our landscape. Every day we depend on clean air, clean water, healthy soil, and crop pollination. We have to take care of biodiversity in Flanders and make our region resistant to the threat of climate change.
The Alliums of Flanders Fields highlight the threat of ecological impoverishment, a lack of drinking water, flooding, and many other disasters that can affect not only Flanders but many places around the world. It’s becoming increasingly difficult for people, animals, and plants to survive, which in turn creates new hotbeds for conflict and war. As temperatures rise, we are seeing more and more insect and other animal species that haven’t adapted to this new climate and need to move to cooler climes.
Why in Flanders Fields?
It’s an initiative in this area that involves the close regional cooperation between cities, municipalities, residents, and visitors, in a popular and commentative landscape where the message of peace is paramount. The Alliums will help us remember the victims of war, and emphasize the need for peace on this planet.
Why plant Alliums?
The Allium is an ornamental onion that symbolises protection and avoiding danger. It’s easy to plant in the polders and hills of Flanders Fields. The Allium is also a favourite for bees and butterflies, so it’ll make a significant impact on biodiversity. This plant will flower for several years (in May/June) and is quite low maintenance. It was decided to plant a different plant in the region, which of course is usually known for its Poppies.
Where to see the Alliums of Flanders Fields
This map plots out all the Allium fields that will hopefully be a sea of purple in late May and June.
Feel free to send me your photos of the Alliums of Flanders Fields and I will be happy to add them here.
I created Discovering Belgium in 2011 to share the country’s hidden stories, fascinating places, and remarkable people. Through articles, photography, and audio walks, I share discoveries that reveal Belgium beyond the obvious. Hope you enjoy this site.
That will be a stunning sight. I hope we do get to see some photos of the alliums in flower.
Me too!
They are beautiful plants and will make a stunning statement, let’s hope they thrive ( they don’t like the soil too wet!)
That’s a concern, considering the heavy rains we have had in Belgium over the last six weeks or so, and particularly in West Flanders. Thanks Elaine.
An excellent custom
Thanks Derrick, I’m sure you already have some of these in your beautiful garden!
We do
They are lovely, are they replacing the poppies or being with?
In addition, as the poppies just grow wild anyway. The alliums are in more cultivated or confined areas.
Interesting read! I certainly hope they won’t take over/choke out the poppies.
No, the poppies will always be there, and will probably make a nice mix with the alliums Terry.
How very special. What a glorious colourful sight that would be.
Indeed Miriam, I am looking forward to seeing the end results.
Didn’t know they symbolise protection and danger avoidance. Always learn something interesting from you. Thank you!
Glad to hear that Alexandra!
How beautiful! An amazing initiative!
Yes I am looking forward to seeing a splash of purple amidst our grey Spring (so far).
Interesting! Should be quite a sight. I think the archeologists found the remains of onions with the pharaohs’ mummies, not for afterlife snacking, but as a symbol of eternal life. This seems like a great idea.
Ah the Egyptians were probably blogging about Alliums a long time ago then!
Excellent idea. Similarly, a flower meadow was recently planted in our Necropolis as a memorial to all those buried there without marked graves.
Oh that’s a lovely idea Anabel
A lovely idea – they are beautiful flowers so I’ll bet they look spectacular.
I had the honour of planting two allium during a visit to Essex Farm. I hope to return one day to witness the splendournof so many in bloom.
That’s a great memory to plant, Sue!