(Allium schoenoprasum)                           Perennial

 

It was once believed that chives could only be safely prepared by "alchemists" because of the effects chives were thought to have. Back then, chives were known to "emit vapors to the brain, causing troublesome sleep and spoiling the eyesight." All this has been proven wrong and since then, chives have been proven to be full of the vitamins A and C, and the flowers of chives are known to be edible and tasty as well.

As reflected by its scent, chives are closely related to onion and garlic. This perennial grows from bulbs into long grass-like hollow leaves in clumps and is not usually found larger than about a foot tall. Clumps of lavender, clover-like flowers blossom in the spring.

In addition to being a cooking staple, chives also make an attractive garden border.  Their purple flowers add beauty to any garden. If you are using your chives for cooking, pinch off flower stalks before they bloom - this will encourage new growth. Be warned that your chives will die back in the winter but a thick mulch will encourage them to start growth early in the spring.

Growing Tips:

Sun Exposure: Full sun
Water Requirements: Keep moist but not wet
Soil Type: Moderately rich, well-draining soil
Where to Plant: Near borders or as a ground cover
Harvesting: Before it blooms
Growth Habit: Low-growing

Additional varieties:

Garlic chives...
Also known as "Chinese chives"
Delicate garlic flavor
Used extensively in oriental dishes
Garlic chives are a good choice for those who shy away from full-flavored garlic