Allium Schoenoprasum
Allium Schoenoprasum

Allium Schoenoprasum

£13.99

3 in stock

SKU: allium-schoenoprasum Category:
Common Name: Chives
Size: 2-3 Litre
Hardiness: H6
Hardiness Ratings

All ratings refer to the UK growing conditions unless otherwise stated. Minimum temperature ranges (in degrees ˚C) are shown in brackets

  • H1a: under glass all year (>15˚C)
  • H1b: can be grown outside in the summer (10 - 15 ˚C)
  • H1c: can be grown outside in the summer (5 - 10 ˚C)
  • H2: tolerant of low temperatures, but not surviving being frozen (1 to 5 ˚C)
  • H3: hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK (-5 to 1 ˚C)
  • H4: hardy through most of the UK (-10 to -5 ˚C)
  • H5: hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters (-15 to -10 ˚C)
  • H6: hardy in all of UK and northern Europe (-20 to -15 ˚C)
  • H7: hardy in the severest European continental climates (< -20 ˚C)
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2-3 Litre Pot

  • Position: Full sun, partial shade
  • Soil: Fertile, moist, well drained
  • Growth Rate: Fast
  • Flowering Period: July – August
  • Hardiness: H6
  • Eventual Height: 0.1 – 0.5m
  • Eventual Spread: 0.1 – 0.5m

Allium Schoenoprasum, also known as ‘Chives’, is a vigorous perennial plant that belongs to the Allium family. This plant is commonly used in culinary preparations for its mild onion-like flavour and attractive appearance.

The plant has long, slender, and tubular leaves that are dark green in colour and can grow up to 10cm in height. The leaves are hollow and have a slightly grassy appearance. In late Spring and early Summer, they produce round, pinkish-purple flowers that grow in clusters at the end of long, thin stems. The flowers are edible and make a colourful addition to salads or as a garnish.

Chives are easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of soil types. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They grow best in well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. The plants can be propagated through division in early Spring or Autumn.

These are widely used in cooking, particularly in French and European cuisine. They are used to flavour dishes such as soups, stews, and sauces.  The flowers can be used as an edible garnish or added to salads.

In conclusion, this is a versatile and easy-to-grow herb that has culinary and medicinal uses. Its mild onion-like flavour and attractive appearance make it a popular addition to many dishes, and its high nutrient content makes it a healthy choice for any diet.

How to care for your Allium Schoenoprasum

  • Soil: Prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can grow in a range of soil types, but prefer a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
  • Watering: Requires regular watering to maintain their moisture levels. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During dry periods, water the plant deeply once a week.
  • Sunlight: Requires full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but they will not thrive in full shade.
  • Fertilisation: Does not require much fertiliser, but you can apply a balanced fertiliser in the Spring to encourage growth.
  • Harvesting: To encourage continued growth, harvest regularly. Cut the leaves near the base of the plant with scissors or shears, but leave at least one-third of the plant intact.
  • Division: Can be divided every few years to maintain their vigour. Divide the plant in the Spring or Autumn by digging up the clump and separating it into smaller sections. Replant the sections in well-draining soil.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Chives grow and thrive for years to come, providing you with a tasty and nutritious herb for your culinary creations.