Chives
Scientific Name: Allium schoenoprasum
Native To: Asia
Basic History: Chives are the smallest species of the onion family. Chives were transported to America by the colonists. For gardeners, chives are a reliable pest deterrent.
Culinary Uses: Chives are used as a common household herb to flavor soups, fish and potatoes. The flowers can be added to salads. It has a much milder flavor than its other relatives in the onion family; therefore it is often used raw as a garnish.
Flavor and Taste: Chives have a light garlic and onion flavor and the leaves and blossoms have a much more distinct, strong garlic and onion flavor and scent.
Nutritional Notes: As part of the onion family, chives have the same beneficial effects on the circulatory, digestive and respiratory systems, although in milder form.