#803 Allium schoenoprasum Common Names: chive, cive Family: Amaryllidaceae (amaryllis Family) Get link to this Profile or click for data record #803

Chives are fun to grow in containers where they're such a lovely site or grow them in the kitchen where they'll flavor every bite!

Location
Chives are derived from a wild ancestor that is native to Europe and Asia.

Culture
Chives should be cut to the ground after flowering, unless you want to collect seeds.
Light: Full sun.
Moisture: Regular watering keeps chives growing strong, but they can tolerate dry periods if they have to.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3 - 9. Chives lose their leaves in winter. They need at least a few weeks of rest before sending up new leaves.
Propagation: Chives can be started from seeds, but they take a few weeks to germinate. The best way to propagate chives is to divide existing clumps. In fact, chives should be divided every couple years before the plants weaken from crowding and too much cutting. Divide them in winter when they are dormant.

Usage
Chives are grown in the herb or vegetable garden, often as edging or around larger plants. Many cooks grow chives in a pot on the kitchen windowsill so they can cut a few leaves as they need them. The perennial plants just keep growing back! It's best not to cut every leaf from a plant; leave a few to keep the plant growing. Use chives as a garnish or combine with marjoram (Origanum majorana) and tarragon (Artimisia dracunculus) as French cooks do. Chopped chives are practically required on baked potatoes and creamed soups. For cooked dishes, always add chives at the last minute since their subtle flavors quickly vaporize when heated. Don't overlook the flowers; they are tasty as well as pretty in tossed salads. And don't bother trying to dry chives for storage - they just don't hold a candle to fresh!

Features
Dainty little chives make great edging plants around flower beds and borders. The flower heads are showy and dry beautifully for use in arrangements. Chive flowers are very attractive to bees and other nectar-loving insects.

Steve Christman 9/9/00; updated 8/28/03

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