Contents
Description
Allium Schoenoprasum, commonly known as chives, is a perennial herb that belongs to the onion family. It is known for its mild onion flavor and is often used as a garnish or in cooking. The plant produces edible pink or purple flowers that bloom in the summer months. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and is a popular addition to herb gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Allium |
Appearance
Allium Schoenoprasum grows in clumps and can reach a height of 12-20 inches. The leaves are thin and tubular and grow from a bulb. They are green in color and have a mild onion scent. The flowers are star-shaped and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. They are usually pink or purple in color and bloom in the summer months.
Care Guide
Allium Schoenoprasum is a low-maintenance plant and is easy to care for. Here’s what you need to know:- Water: Chives prefer well-draining soil and should be watered regularly. Be sure not to overwater as this can cause the roots to rot.- Fertilization: Chives do not need a lot of fertilizer. A light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.- Soil: Chives prefer well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. They can be grown in containers or in the ground.- Sunlight: Chives prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Chives are hardy in zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chives are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by thrips, aphids, and onion maggots. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Chives can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Allium Schoenoprasum is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It can be found in meadows, fields, and along riverbanks. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can chives be grown indoors?
A: Yes, chives can be grown indoors in a sunny window or under grow lights.
Q: How often should chives be harvested?
A: Chives can be harvested as soon as they reach 6 inches in height. They can be harvested every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season.
Q: How long do chives live?
A: Chives are perennial plants and can live for several years.
Q: Can chives be frozen?
A: Yes, chives can be frozen by chopping them and placing them in a plastic bag in the freezer.
Related Plants
– Allium cepa (onion)- Allium sativum (garlic)- Allium fistulosum (green onion)- Allium tuberosum (garlic chives)- Allium ursinum (wild garlic)
References
– “Allium schoenoprasum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281181.- “Chives.” University of Illinois Extension, extension.illinois.edu/herbs/chives.cfm.- “Allium schoenoprasum.” Plants for a Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Allium+schoenoprasum.
