Chives Forescate- Allium schoenoprasum

Allium schoenoprasum Forescate is a lovely vibrant pink flowering version of the famous garden chive. This small bulbous plant forms clumps of long, finely aromatic leaves, whose subtle flavour is somewhat reminiscent of onion. It flowers in spring, then tends to disappear in summer in dry soil. Very hardy, almost foolproof, as ornamental as it is delicious, it grows in the sun, in any well-drained soil.

Chives, Allium schoenoprasum in Latin, are also known as cive or onion grass. A perennial plant, aromatic and flavourful, it is one of the most popular herbs. It belongs to the same family as garlic, onion, and shallot, the allium family. It originates from Europe, western and boreal Asia, and northern America. 

The Forescate variety has a bushy habit of about 12-15 cm (5-6in) wide, composed of fine hollow cylindrical leaves of dark grey-green colour. Flowering occurs from May to July, depending on the climate. From the foliage emerge hollow stems carrying spherical inflorescences 20 cm (8in) above the ground, 2 cm (1in) in diameter, resembling small pompoms. Each 'pompom' is composed of numerous small edible star-shaped flowers, with each fresh pink petal crossed by a darker central line, ranging from purplish pink to violet. The plant usually goes dormant after flowering: the foliage persists in moist soil but disappears in dry soil. It is a perennial plant that will be cultivated for two or three years because beyond that, it tends to become less productive. It will then need to be divided. All parts of the plant are edible: bulb, leaves, and even tasty flowers that decorate and flavor salads, dishes, and sauces.

The fresh, garlic-like, and slightly pungent taste of chive sprigs complements many dishes: omelettes, stuffings, savory tarts, and seasoning for fresh cheeses... It is an essential herb in herb gardens, but nothing prevents you from mixing styles and planting it throughout the garden among perennials, especially at the base of roses: its pompom-like flowering is quite charming, and its aromas repel aphids and prevent black spot disease. It is therefore an excellent companion plant.

Harvest: The harvest of Forescate Chives extends over a long period, as long as the foliage is present. It is simply done with scissors, by cutting the stems at the base of the clump. Regular harvests stimulate the renewal of the foliage.

Storage: Chives can be stored for a few days in the refrigerator, or for a few months through drying or freezing. However, it is preferable to enjoy its full aroma by consuming it freshly picked.

Gardener's tip: To limit watering, we recommend, from the end of May, mulching the soil with thin successive layers of grass clippings, if possible mixed with dead leaves. This protection, which keeps the soil moist, also reduces weeding.