Chives are a member of the Allium genus along with garlic and onions.
Alliums are popular for their many culinary uses and health-giving properties. Chives are a useful, edible, garden plant which makes a delightful border grown in masses, and is ideal for pots and window boxes. When growing Chives for cooking rather than for decoration, the flowers should be pinched off to prevent the plant becoming exhausted. The flowers are also edible and can be used in salads and as garnishing on many dishes. Chives should be cut very low after flowering in order to produce new leaves.