Common Name: Blue Chives

General Information

Allium nutans is a herbaceous, perennial plant producing 6 - 8 leaves 30 - 60cm long and a flowering scape 30 - 60cm tall from a solitary or paired underground bulbs around 10 - 20mm in diameter. The bulbs are produced along a stout rhizome, the plant gradually spreading to form a cluster of growth[, , ].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food. It is sometimes grown within its native range as a food plant in gardens, and also sometimes as an ornamental[, ].

Known Hazards

Although no individual reports regarding this species have been seen, there have been cases of poisoning caused by the consumption, in large quantities and by some mammals, of certain members of this genus. Dogs seem to be particularly susceptible[].

Botanical References

, ,

Range

Russia - from eastern Europe through Siberia to Amur; also in Kazakhstan, Mongolia, northern China

Habitat

Stony slopes and meadows on the steppes of central Asia[]. Meadows and damp places in Tibet[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Habit	Bulb
Height	0.50 m
Pollinators	Insects
Cultivation Status	Cultivated, Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Allium nutans is a very hardy plant, succeeding in most areas of the temperate zone.
An easily grown plant for a sunny position in a well-drained soil[].
The plant is sometimes cultivated for food within its native range, where some distinct cultivars have been developed[].
The plant is resistant to false mildew disease of onions[].

Edible Uses

Leaves - raw or cooked[, ]. A good source of vitamin C[]. A mild, chive-like flavour[].

Medicinal

Although no specific mention of medicinal uses has been seen for this species, members of this genus are in general very healthy additions to the diet. They contain sulphur compounds (which give them their onion flavour) and when added to the diet on a regular basis they help reduce blood cholesterol levels, act as a tonic to the digestive system and also tonify the circulatory system[].

Agroforestry Uses:

Allium species usually grow well with most plants, especially roses, carrots, beet and chamomile, but they inhibit the growth of legumes[, , ]. They are, in general, bad companions for alfalfa - each species negatively affecting the other[].
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer[].

Other Uses

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, the juice of most species in this genus (especially those with a strong onion or garlic smell) can be used as a moth repellent[].
The whole plant is said to repel insects and moles[].

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. Germination is usually free and easy, pot up the seedlings as soon as they are large enough to handle easily and plant out in the following spring.
Division can be carried out at almost any time of the year but is probably best done in spring. The clumps should be divided at least every 3 or 4 years in order to maintain vigour[], the divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions.