Appearance
Edible alliums have characteristic slender grey-green leaves and a distinct pungent aroma when crushed. If you leave some un-harvested they have pom-pom like flower heads that are attractive to pollinators. Wild garlic (Allium ursinum) makes a spreading carpet of leaves in early spring before producing starry white flowers.
Preferences
All alliums prefer an open sunny site with well-drained soil, although chives and wild garlic will grow well in partial shade.
Dislikes
High humidity around the foliage can made the plants susceptible to diseases. Crops will be poor in shady sites.
Did you know?
The flowers of chives and wild garlic are edible, so you can use them as a garnish or add them to salads for colour and flavour.
