This perennial herb is similar to flowering chives but has flat leaves and a great medium garlic flavour. Flowers are extremely tasty and can be used for dried arrangements. Once you have them you find it's a fantastic mild garlic flavour that adds just the right touch to any dish where garlic is required. A delight to any garden or salad.

Direct seed at 2 mm deep. Chives will grow in ordinary garden soil and are best sown in groups to aid with the clumping effect. Beds should be replanted every 3 to 4 years and beyond weeding between the clumps no extra care is needed. Chives can be eaten at any stage, including the flowers.

Plant in full sun to part shade in well-drained soil with good organic content.

Native to Asia Europe and North America and has been cultivated for over 5000 years.

Chives are rich in vitamin A and C, calcium, iron and contain trace amounts of sulphur.