Chives

(Allium schoenoprasum)

herb chives

Name Origin:

It's English name derives from the French word cive, which was derived from cepa, the Latin word for onion.
 

Natural Order:

Liliaceæ
 

Growing Cycle:

perenial
 

Height:

compact
 

Characteristics:

An onion-like plant with hollow, grass-like leaves.
 

Flowers:

Spiky, purple flower heads.
 

Fun Fact.

Chives are not actually classified as an herb.
 

 


How to Grow Chives

seeds, transplantation, and harvest

Chives do not produce seeds. For best results, do not grow chives in the same place for more than 3 years.
 

Transplantation.

Chive plants are propagated by planting individual bulbs or by divisions. Planting is best done in the early spring.
 

Harvest.

Cut leaves with shears. For optimum yield, cut close to the ground. Cuttings can be made every 2-3 weeks throughout the growing season.

Chive Uses

leaves

Leaves.

Dried or fresh, chive leaves are often used instead of onions for flavoring salads, stews and other dishes. Chives are a favorite addition on baked potatoes.
 

 

General Info

Culinary Herbs