Flower Specifications
- Season: Perennial
- USDA Zones: 7 - 11
- Height: 14 inches
- Bloom Season: Mid spring to late summer
- Bloom Color: Purple
- Environment: Ful sun
- Soil Type: Light, sandy soil, pH 5.6 - 7.5
Planting Directions
- Temperature: 70F
- Average Germ Time: 14 - 21 days
- Light Required: Yes
- Depth: 1/8th inch
- Sowing Rate: 2 - 3 seeds per plant
- Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination
- Plant Spacing: 3 - 6 inches
Society Garlic (Tulbaghia Violacea) - Like ordinary garlic, Society Garlic is a member of the lily family. However, the family link is tenuous and society garlic it is not an allium. As such it can best be described as a cousin of true garlic and is actually more closely related to the narcissus flower. Even though it is not an allium, society garlic does possess a very garlicky smell. This aroma is believed to be the reason for the "garlic" part of its name.
As well as having a pleasant garlic smell, society garlic makes a good ornamental plant for the flower garden. The leaves are long, thin and evergreen and it has attractive purple flowers. In the herb garden, society garlic looks attractive with plants of contrasting foliage and habit.
Society garlic is hardy only to USDA zone 7. Southern gardeners can grow it year-round outdoors; it tolerates summer heat well and blooms for months. The plants do best in full sun and in light, sandy soil. Though the foliage will be damaged by temperatures below 25 degrees, it grows back very quickly. To maintain potted society garlic, cut off spent blooms and keep the soil moderately moist when the flowers are in bloom, dry if the plants become dormant.
Society garlic is a beautiful ornamental flowerong plant, but it can also be used in the kitchen as well. The leaves can be chopped like those of garlic chives and added to stir-fries, salads, soups or egg dishes, wherever you�d like a hint of garlic. Try adding a few snippets to mayonnaise and watercress in a cucumber sandwich.
