Society garlic is a tender perennial native to southern African grasslands that brings both culinary intrigue and ornamental charm to zones 7-10. Rising 12 to 24 inches tall from a tuberous rootstock, this narrow-leafed plant produces delicate lilac-pink flowers from July through September that smell sweetly fragrant, contrasting beautifully with the pungent garlic aroma released when leaves or roots are bruised. The foliage remains gray-green and attractive year-round in mild climates, while the plant's exceptional drought tolerance and low maintenance requirements make it equally at home in a garden bed or container.
12
Full Sun
Moderate
7-10
24in H x 12in W
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Moderate
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Society garlic's secret weapon is its dual personality: an ornamental that flowers reliably with fragrant, showy blooms across the summer months, combined with edible leaves and roots that carry a genuine garlic flavor. The strong garlic scent that gives it its name also serves as a natural deer and rabbit repellent, protecting the plant without any sprays or interventions. Its tuberous roots spread over time to create an expanding clump, while the plant's heat and drought tolerance mean it thrives with minimal fussing once established.
Society garlic's leaves and rootstock are eaten fresh or cooked, offering a milder, sweeter garlic flavor compared to true garlic. The foliage can be snipped throughout the growing season for use in salads, soups, stir-fries, and as a garnish, while the tuberous roots can be harvested and prepared much like small garlic bulbs. The fragrant flowers are also edible and add visual appeal to dishes.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost date in a warm location between 60-70°F. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until germination occurs.
Harden off seedlings over 7-10 days by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions, then transplant into the garden after all frost danger has passed. Space plants 9 to 12 inches apart in full sun and well-drained soil.
Begin harvesting leaves once the plant is established, typically 2-3 months after planting. Snip outer leaves as needed throughout the growing season, starting from the base of the plant to encourage continued growth. The tuberous roots can be dug and harvested in fall or early spring after the plant has matured.
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