Allium schoenoprasum

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Allium schoenoprasum
Also known as: Wild chives

Plant Properties

Layer: Herb layer, Vegetable
Format: Smal
Height: 0.30 m
Width: 0.30 m
Growth Rate: -
Leaf: -

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 5-11
Soil Moisture:
Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acid Neutral Basic
Light:
Half shade, Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Leaves, Flowers, Root
Edibility:
(5)
Medicinal:
(2)
Features:
Fungicide, Repellent, Bee plant

Description

The leaves of this plant can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried for later use. They have a mild onion aroma and pair well in salads or as a flavoring in soups. The leaves are usually available from late winter to early the following winter, especially when the plant grows in a warm and sheltered spot. They are a good source of sulfur and iron. The bulbs are small, usually no larger than 10 mm in diameter, and can be harvested along with the leaves, after which they are used as spring onions due to their mild onion flavor. The flowers can be used as a garnish in salads. It is important to mention that the flowers of this species are quite dry and less desirable than those of many other species.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/05
End of Harvest: 30/09

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild Description
Lathyrus odoratus
Sweet Pea, Wild Pea,Vetchling
Allium schoenoprasum (chives) can enhance the flavor of Mentha spicata (spearmint) while also repelling aphids, benefiting both plants.
Fagopyrum esculentum
Buckwheat
Chives can help to deter pests that might affect Fagopyrum esculentum (buckwheat), promoting its growth and productivity.
Lathyrus latifolius
Perennial Sweet Pea
The strong flavor of chives can complement Lactuca sativa (lettuce), enhancing its taste while chives deter pests that target lettuce.
Thymus vulgaris
Common Thyme, Garden thyme, Wild Thyme
Chives and Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) can coexist well; chives provide pest protection, while thyme adds flavor and attracts beneficial insects.
Punica granatum
Pomegranate
Chives may help repel pests from Punica granatum (pomegranate), while combining yields a diverse and flavorful garden.