Chives

A must have in any herb garden, chives are a strong growing herb with a delicious light onion flavour. Every Spring they will produce an abundance of pink pom pom flowers on tall, upright stems that are much loved by bees. Flowers are also edible.
 
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are loved for their mild onion flavor, vibrant green foliage, and versatile uses. With their easy cultivation, attractive appearance, and distinctive taste, chives are a popular choice for gardeners and chefs alike, offering both aesthetic beauty and practical benefits.
 
Culinary Use:
Chives are highly regarded in the culinary world for their delicate onion flavor and vibrant color. The slender, hollow leaves of chives are commonly used as a fresh garnish or chopped and added to dishes just before serving. Chives add a subtle oniony taste to a wide range of recipes, including salads, soups, omelets, and dips.
In addition to their leaves, chive flowers are also edible and make a stunning garnish for salads, soups, and savory dishes. The purple flowers have a mild onion flavor and add a pop of color to culinary creations. Chive flowers can also be used to infuse vinegar or oils, creating flavorful condiments that enhance the taste of salads and dressings.
 
Planting and Harvesting:
Chives are perennial herbs that thrive in well-drained soil and full sunlight to partial shade. When planting chives, choose a location with good air circulation and fertile soil. 
To harvest chives, snip off individual leaves  as needed. Chives can be harvested throughout the growing season, from spring to autumn, and can be used fresh or dried for later use. Regular harvesting encourages continued growth and ensures a steady supply of fresh chives for culinary endeavors.
 
Medicinal Use:
Chives have a long history of medicinal use dating back to ancient times. The leaves and bulbs of chives contain compounds with potential health benefits, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
In herbal medicine, chives are often used to support digestive health, boost immunity, and promote overall well-being. Chive tea, brewed from the leaves or bulbs of the plant, is consumed as a tonic to aid in digestion, reduce inflammation, and relieve symptoms of colds and respiratory infections.
 
Ecological Benefits:
Chives are highly attractive to pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies, with their colorful flowers and abundant nectar. By planting chives in the garden, you can help support pollinator populations and promote biodiversity in the area. Bees, in particular, are drawn to the sweet scent of chive flowers and rely on them for food and nectar.
In addition to their value as a pollinator plant, chives also provide habitat and food for various beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which help control garden pests. The dense foliage and hollow stems of chives offer shelter for insects and small animals, contributing to the overall health and balance of the ecosystem.
 
Genus: Allium schoenoprasum
Aspect: Full Sun / part shade
Type: Perennial
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: 0.5 metres 
Spread: 0.5 metres