Ivar Leidus / CC BY-SA 4.0
herb
Chives
Allium schoenoprasum
EdibleMedicinalNative to N. America
Edible Partsleaves, flowers
Overview
The smallest member of the onion family, chives produce clumps of hollow, grass-like leaves with a mild onion flavor and beautiful spherical purple flowers. Among the most useful herbs for home gardeners, chives are virtually indestructible perennials that deter aphids and other pests from nearby plants. Both the leaves and edible flowers are delicious in a wide range of dishes.
Growing Conditions
LightFull Sun
MoistureModerate
Hardiness Zones3 — 9
Height0.3m
Spread0.3m
Growth HabitForb/herb
LifespanPerennial
Pollinator Valuemoderate
Companion Planting & Soil
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Soil pH6 — 7
Soil TypeRich, moist, well-drained soil
Planting Calendar
When to sow, transplant, and harvest by growing zone.
| Zone | Action | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold (1-2) | Transplant | May — Jun | Plant in spring; hardy perennial to zone 3 |
| Cold (1-2) | Harvest | May — Sep | Cut leaves 2" above base |
| Cool (3-4) | Transplant | Apr — May | Plant in spring |
| Cool (3-4) | Harvest | Apr — Oct | Cut leaves 2" above base |
| Moderate (5-7) | Transplant | Mar — Apr | Plant in early spring |
| Moderate (5-7) | Harvest | Mar — Nov | Cut leaves as needed |
| Moderate (5-7) | Divide | Mar — Apr | Divide clumps every 2-3 years |
| Warm (8-9) | Transplant | Feb — Mar | Plant in late winter |
| Warm (8-9) | Harvest | Feb — Nov | Cut leaves as needed |
| Hot (10+) | Transplant | Jan — Feb | Plant in winter |
| Hot (10+) | Harvest | Jan — Dec | Harvest year-round |
Uses
Culinary
- Snipped fresh over baked potatoes, eggs, and soups
- Flowers separated into florets for salads and garnish
- Chive blossom vinegar for salad dressings
Medicinal
- Mild antibiotic and antifungal properties from allicin compounds
- Rich in vitamins A and C
- Traditional use for appetite stimulation and digestion
Other Uses
- Pest deterrent companion plant (aphids, Japanese beetles)
- Edible ornamental border plant
- Attracts bees and beneficial insects
Safety Notes
Although no individual reports regarding this species have been seen, there have been cases of poisoning caused by the consumption, in very large quantities and by some mammals, of certain members of this genus. Dogs seem to be particularly susceptible[76].
