Allium schoenoprasum /ˈæliəm/
Common name: Chives
Allium schoenoprasum is a hardy perennial herb in the amaryllis family, Amaryllidaceae, native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Its hollow, grass-like leaves have a mild onion flavor, and it produces attractive purple pom-pom flowers. It is the smallest species of the cultivated onion genus Allium.
Care summary
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Regular; keep soil moist
Soil
Rich, moist, well-draining
Hardiness
Zones 3–9
Mature height
30–50 cm (12–20 in)
Pet safe
Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA)
Difficulty
Easy
Propagation
Propagate by division or seed. Dig up a mature clump in spring, pull it into smaller sections each with roots and shoots, and replant immediately in moist soil.
Fun facts
- Chives are the only Allium species native to both the Old World and the New World.
- The purple flower heads are edible and make a pretty, onion-flavored garnish.
- Chives regrow from bulbs year after year and are often among the first herbs to sprout in spring.
- Chive flowers are a favorite of bees and other pollinators.