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Plant Profiles / Chives
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Chives
Allium schoenoprasum · Chives
A clumping herb with mild onion flavour and edible pink-purple pompom flowers.
Sun to part shadeLight
Keep moistWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Sun.
Water
Keep moist
DryWet
Regularly.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-20–30°C (-4–86°F)
CoolWarm
Hardy.
Growth
Moderate
SlowFast
30 cm.
Soil
Rich mix
LeanRich
Potting mix.
Fertiliser
Monthly
RarelyOften
Liquid.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Alliums are toxic to pets.
About this plant
Chives are hardy perennials from Europe and Asia. Snip leaves often to encourage regrowth.
Best spots
Herb pots, windowsills and balconies.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Allium schoenoprasum |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Origin | Europe & Asia |
| Plant type | Perennial herb |
| Mature size | 30 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Flowers | Pink-purple pompoms |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Harvest
Divide
HarvestDivide
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Yellow tips | Hungry. |
| Thin | Divide. |
| Rust | Remove. |
| Aphids | Hose. |
| Dieback | Winter dormancy. |
Common questions
Flowers edible?
Yes.
Harvest?
Cut to 5 cm.
Toxic?
To pets.
Perennial?
Yes.
