Northwest Blooms · Bulbs
Allium schoenoprasum
Chives
- Family
- Amaryllidaceae
- Height
- 12 to 18 inches tall
- Width
- 6 to 12 inches wide
- Flower color
- Purple or pink
- Foliage color
- Green
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun to part shade
- Water
- Medium; prefers well-draining soil
- Maintenance
- Low; cut back after flowering to promote new growth
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees and butterflies are attracted to the flowers
About this plant
Allium schoenoprasum, commonly known as chives, is a perennial herb native to Europe, Asia, and North America, cultivated for its mild onion flavor and ornamental grass-like foliage. Chives grow in dense clumps with slender, hollow stems that emerge from bulbs and are topped with pale purple to pink star-shaped flowers. The leaves, used fresh or dried, add a mild onion flavor to dishes like salads, soups, and sauces. Valued for both culinary and ornamental purposes, chives are easy to grow, require little maintenance, and thrive in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil. The flowers also attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Under Trees · Containers · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Bleeding hearts · Catmint · Heucheras · Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums
Design tip
The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Plant in generous groups rather than single spots, and set them among perennials whose new growth covers the fading foliage.
