HERB ‘Onion Chives’ Seeds
Botanical Name: Allium schoenoprasum
- Perennial herb with hollow, grass-like leaves and purple pom-pom flowers.
- Mild onion flavour complements eggs, potatoes, soups, and dips.
- Edible flowers make a beautiful garnish or addition to salads.
- Suitable for borders, garden beds, and container growing.
- Low-maintenance and hardy; returns year after year with minimal care.
What Are Onion Chives?
Onion chives form tidy clumps of tubular leaves that grow to around 20–30 cm tall. Their distinctive purple flowers bloom in spring or early summer and attract bees and other beneficial pollinators. Onion chives are highly versatile and have been used for centuries in both culinary and ornamental gardens.
Culinary Uses
The leaves have a gentle onion flavour and are best used fresh, snipped finely into omelettes, mashed potatoes, soft cheeses, soups, or sprinkled over salads. The flowers are edible and can be used whole or pulled apart for a colourful garnish.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Perennial herb in the onion family (Alliaceae)
- Plant Height: 20–30 cm
Sowing Information
- Germination: 14–21 days at 18–20°C
- Depth: Sow seeds 2 cm deep
- Position: Full sun to part shade
- Sow Where: Direct sow or transplant clumps into beds, borders, or containers
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-drained soil (pH 5.5–7.0)
- Spacing: 20–25 cm between plants
Growing Tips
- Cut back plants in winter or allow to go dormant in colder climates.
- Divide clumps every 3 years to rejuvenate and maintain vigour.
- Deadhead flowers to prevent excessive self-seeding.
- Excellent companion plant for carrots, tomatoes, and roses.
Harvest
Begin harvesting around 60–90 days after sowing. Use scissors to snip outer leaves at the base. Harvest regularly for continuous growth. Best picked in the morning after dew has dried.
When to Sow Onion Chives in New Zealand
| NZ Region | Best Planting Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| North Island – Upper (e.g. Auckland, Bay of Plenty) | August – April | Sow direct or in trays. Water regularly during dry spells. |
| North Island – Lower (e.g. Wellington, Taranaki) | September – March | Best sown in spring. Protect seedlings from strong wind and frost. |
| South Island – Northern (e.g. Nelson, Marlborough) | September – February | Start in trays for earlier germination. Transplant when stable. |
| South Island – Central & Southern (e.g. Canterbury, Otago) | October – December | Wait until after last frost. Mulch to retain moisture. |
Quick Growing Guide
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Germination Time | 14–21 days |
| Sowing Depth | 2 cm |
| Watering | Moderate and consistent moisture |
| Plant Height | 20–30 cm |
| Soil Type | Moist, rich, well-drained |
| Spacing | 20–25 cm |
| Sunlight | Full sun to part shade |
| Harvest Period | 60–90 days after sowing |
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