Scallions, Chives, and Green Onions: What's the Difference?

Distinct Plants, Different Uses

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

• Perennial herb forming dense clumps.
• Hollow, tubular leaves—flavor is in the foliage.
• Edible purple flowers in spring.
• Used fresh as garnish; loses flavor when cooked.

Green Onions / Scallions (Allium fistulosum or young A. cepa)

• Grow as individual plants with a small white bulb.
• Both green tops and white base are edible; bulb has strongest flavor.
• "Scallion" = young green onion harvested before bulb swells.
• Used raw or cooked; staple in Asian cuisine.

Key Differences

All are easy to grow in containers or garden beds. Chives return yearly; green onions are replanted each season.