Chive is a green vegetable that is closely related to the onion. The chive plant is native to Siberia and Southeast Asia. It grows wild in Europe and Asia and is cultivated in most parts of the United States. The root is a small, egg-shaped bulb from which grow long, thin, tubelike leaves. The plant bears showy lavender flowers.
People chop the leaves and use them to flavor food. For example, chive leaves may be used in salads, soups, and cheeses. Chives contain a large amount of vitamin C. The plants are often potted and grown indoors.