Garlic Chives Cliffs of Dover - Allium tuberosum

Allium tuberosum Cliffs of Dover is an horticultural selection closely related to Chinese Chives, also known as Chinese Leek or Garlic Chives. This lovely bulbous plant has a more generous summer flowering than its humble vegetable garden cousin and develops delightfully aromatic foliage. Its leaves can be enjoyed raw, finely chopped in salads or added to omelettes and soups. The white star-shaped flowers can also be consumed. Useful for pollinating insects, decorative in the garden, delicious and fragrant, this garlic is easily grown in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil that is not too dry in summer.

Allium Cliffs of Dover belongs to the Liliaceae family, like garlic, onions, and shallots. This herbaceous plant, perennial by its bulb, reaches approximately 50cm (20in) in height when flowering. It closely resembles chives, but it is taller. Its foliage emerges in spring and dries up in autumn. Flowering occurs from July to September. The small, fragrant white flowers are grouped in globular umbels with a diameter of 5cm (2in). They are a valuable source of food for bees and other butterflies. The leaves are long, narrow, flat, with smooth edges and a rounded tip. Their colour is dark green. They have a subtle, mild garlic aroma.

This lovely aromatic plant can be grown in the vegetable garden or as a border plant, sometimes in a pot. Like other ornamental garlics, 'Cliffs of Dover' pairs well with many perennial plants (geraniums, catnips, oriental poppies, lavenders, sages...). Used as a seasoning plant, it should only be cultivated for two or three years, as beyond that it tends to exhaust itself and become less productive. Its mild flavour, resembling garlic, suits many dishes, especially Asian cuisine. But it is also used in Western cuisine to flavour salads, soups, etc. The white flowers are used to decorate dishes and provide a hint of garlic.

Harvest: Leaf harvesting extends over a long period, from late spring to autumn. Simply cut the leaves at the base of the clump with scissors. Regular harvesting stimulates foliage renewal but depletes the plant's reserves in the medium term. Flowers can be harvested in August-September.

Storage: Leaves can be stored for a few days in the refrigerator or for a few months by drying or freezing. However, to fully enjoy the flavour, it is preferable to consume them freshly picked.