Common Name: |
Chives |
Botanical Name: |
Allium schoenoprasum syn. A. sibiricum |
Genus: |
Allium |
Family: |
Alliaceae |
Cultivation: |
Rich, well-drained soil in full sun. Allium schoenoprasum tolerates wetter conditions, heavier soil, and a less open position than most other alliums. Allium atricoccum and A. ursinum prefer moist soil in shade. Allium fistulosum may be hilled up, like leeks, to produce blanched stems. Cut A. schoenoprasum down to the ground after flowering to produce fresh leaves. Onion maggot is common in some countries on light soils; downy mildew is prevalent in wet weather; rots may effect both growing and stored bulbs. Onions, garlic, and chives are often recommended in companion planting to deter pests, weeds, and diseases, though both are reputed to affect legumes adversely. |
Propagation: |
By seed sown in spring; by bulbils planted in autumn or spring (A. ampeloprasum). By seed sown in autumn or spring, or by "sets" (small bulbs), planted in spring (A.cepa). Sowing and planting of cultivars of A. cepa vary widely in different climates. By seed sown in succession in spring for summer use, and in summer for autumn and spring use (A. fistulosum). By bulbs or individual cloves planted in autumn or winter (A. sativum). By seed sown in spring; by bulbs planted when dormant (A. tricoccum, A ursinum). |
Harvest: |
Allium ampeloprasum, A. cepa, and A. sativum are harvested in late summer and early autumn. Allium cepa and A. sativum are left to dry in the sun before being stored at 3-5°C (37-41°F). Allium fistulosum is pulled when the stems are pencil thick, or left until leek-sized, and used fresh or quickly cooked. Allium schoenoprasum is cut as needed in the growing season. It is best used fresh or finely chopped and frozen. Allium triccocum, A. tuberosum, and A. ursinum are gathered to be used fresh. Allium tuberosum is blanched in China using clay pots or straw "tents" to give tender leaves that are eaten raw in finger-length pieces. |
Native Location: |
Worldwide |
Height: |
10-60cm (4-24in) |
Width: |
30cm (12in) |
Variations: |
Forescate Is larger than the species and has pink flowers. Height: 45cm (18in) Width: 30-45cm (12-18in)
Grolau (Windowsill chives) Has dark green, well flavored foliage that keeps well in low light and re-grows rapidly when cut.
Profusion Has sterile flowers that last well, making an excellent plant for edible flower production
Var. sibiricum (Siberian Chives, giant chives) has a strong, garlic-like flavor. |
Hardiness: |
Z3-9 |
Parts Used: |
Leaves, bulbs, flowers |
Properties: |
Similar effect to other alliums, but is milder; rarely used medicinally. |
Culinary Uses: |
Chives are especially good with potatoes and eggs. Leaves are used to garnish and flavor soups and salads, and in soft cheeses, omelettes, and sauces such as remoulade and ravigote. Chopped chives and onions flavor Cotswold cheese (England). Individual flowers are added to salads. |
Bibliography: |
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown. Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pp 111, 114
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