Chives is the smallest species of the onion family alliceae. They bloom in May and June. The pretty lavender-pink globular flower heads of chives not only beautify the garden, but they can also be used as a garnish for salad dishes. It grows in clumps rather than as individual plants. Its species name dervives from the Greek word skhoinos(sedge) and prason(onion). Its English name chive is derived from the French word cive derived from cepa being the Latin word for onion. The Romans seem to have believed that chives could relieve a sore throat and sunburns . Chives are native to the cool regions of Europe and Asia. Now they grow wild in North America, especially around the Great Lakes region. They can even be found growing wild in your backyard lawn. Chives are a popular hardy garden plant that grows from 8 to 15 inches tall. Chives can be used for control of high blood pressure. The whole plant has a beneficial effect on the digestive system and blood circulation. It im...