Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) AL-ee-um skoy-no-PRAY-sum Genus:  Allium The purple or white pom-pom flowers of chives top aromatic stems in summer. The leaves are edible and have a mild onion flavor; the flowers can be used as garnishes. Plants grow in dense clumps to 2 feet high. Use chives in a cottage, herb, or vegetable garden, or in containers. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Edible foliage; showy flowers; self-sows. Care:  Provide full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Propagation:  Easily started from seed. Sow in late fall to mid-winter. Spring-sown seedlings may not emerge for a year. Divide clumps in spring or fall. Problems:  Nothing serious.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 6 in. to 12 in. Growth Habit Clumps Light Full Sun Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Fragrant Foliage, Self Seeds, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Summer, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Purple, White Uses Beds and Borders, Suitable as Annual Style Cottage Garden, Herb Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Bulbs