Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.
Common Chives
Allium
AlliumAllium schoenoprasum
- Partial sun
- Zones 4–8
- 75 days to maturity
- Vegetables
- 6" spacing
- Low water
- Perennial
- pH 6–7
Overview
Common Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are a classic perennial herb featuring slender, tubular green leaves that grow in dense clumps and reach 12-18 inches tall. Delicate purple-pink pompom flowers appear in spring, adding ornamental appeal. Ready to harvest at 75-85 days from seed, though established plants provide year-round cutting. This hardy heirloom offers mild, delicate onion flavor with subtle sharpness, making it ideal for finishing dishes, garnishing soups, and creaming into sauces. Unlike stronger alliums, chives complement rather than overpower. Extremely cold-hardy and low-maintenance.
Planting
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost or direct sow in spring. Divide clumps every 3-4 years.
Growing
Sun: partial. Water: low. Soil pH: 6–7. Space plants 6" apart. Germination: 10-14.
Pests & diseases
Common pests: Aphids, thrips (rarely problematic). Common diseases: Very disease resistant, occasional rust in humid conditions.