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Key characteristics

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

Bulbs

Allium schoenoprasum

Chives

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.

Light

Full sun to part shade

Water

Medium; prefers well-draining soil

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

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.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)