Chinese chives are a perennial herb with flat, grass-like green leaves and a mild garlic-onion flavor, distinct from round onion chives; they form clumps, produce edible white flowers, and are used in Asian cooking for stir-fries, dumplings, and eggs, adding savory flavor and texture. They are heartier than regular chives, with a strong aroma when crushed, and are a staple in many Asian cuisines.
Leaves: Flat, long, and pale green, unlike the hollow, round leaves of common chives, with a strong garlic smell when crushed.
Plant: Forms clumps of foliage, reaching 10-20 inches tall, with edible white flowers on stalks.
Hardiness: A perennial that dies back in winter in colder climates but stays green in warmer zones.
Taste: Stronger, garlicky flavor than onion chives, but milder than raw garlic.
Culinary Uses: Used in dumplings, pancakes, stir-fries, egg dishes, soups, and salads; added at the end of cooking to preserve flavor.
Edible Parts: Leaves, flowers, and even seeds are edible.
Cultivated in Asia for over 3,000 years for culinary, medicinal, and ceremonial uses.
Yellow Chives: A variety with a milder taste and more delicate texture than standard garlic chives.
|
Type
|
Herbs |
| Family |
Family Varies |
| Temperature Soil |
50-60F |
| Temperature Daytime |
50-85F |
| Temperature Evening |
45F |
| Lighting |
Partial, 2-4 Hours/Day |
| Water |
Light, 6 Gallons/Week |
| Maturity |
65-100 Days Harvest |
| PH Neutral |
5.5-8.0 |
| Zones |
2A-10B |
| Plant Placement |
3 Plants, 3 Rows |