Allium tuberosum Seeds | Mauve Garlic Chives
LATIN NAME: Allium tuberosum
COMMON NAME: Garlic Chives
Plant Profile
Among the ornamental and useful plants raised from seed, Garlic Chives (Allium tuberosum) stands out as a perennial in the onion family. Garlic chives open their small, white, starry heads above flat, grassy leaves, and the whole plant stands in the dense, neat clumps. It is a plant of open, sunny, deep, moist, well-drained ground. While it flowers, it feeds a quiet procession of bees and hoverflies. All of this makes Garlic Chives a satisfying plant to grow and to get to know.
Science & Biotechnology
As part of the onion family, Allium tuberosum contributes to research on plant classification and adaptation, while nurseries and gardeners continue to trial it for cultivation. Little about its garden performance is mysterious; it has been grown and observed for a very long time.
Uses & Benefits
Garlic Chives works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Garlic chives are a fine, generous herb of herb bed and kitchen garden. It is a fine, generous herb of open, sunny, deep, moist, well-drained garden. Give young plants deep, moist bed, and starry heads will rise in the first season. Establishment is uncomplicated, and afterwards ordinary care suffices.
The onion family is one of the great medicinal plant groups: garlic, onions, leeks and their kin supply sulfur compounds such as allicin that have been studied extensively for cardiovascular and antimicrobial effects. Regular allium consumption is associated with several benefits in population studies, and garlic remains one of the world’s best-selling herbal supplements.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for Garlic Chives, and the process is uncomplicated. Sow thinly on the surface of a loose, well-drained seed compost, cover lightly, water in gently and keep the tray in a sunny spot with even moisture. Transplant the sturdiest seedlings to their permanent spots and let them develop without disturbance.
Our Take
Garlic Chives has real presence in the garden without demanding much in return. It is generous with beginners and their occasional misjudgements.
Related Reading
If Garlic Chives appeals to you, these related plants are worth a look: