Society Garlic
Society garlic supposedly got its nickname because the plant tastes like garlic, but doesn’t give you garlic breath.
Although it’s not in the allium family like an onion, garlic, or leek, it does have a strong garlicky and peppery scent and taste.
As a low-maintenance ground cover with pretty flowers, society garlic can serve a dual purpose in both ornamental and edible gardens.
Botanical name: Tulbaghia violacea
Other names: Purple society garlic, white society garlic
Society garlic flowers
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Society Garlic Appearance
Society garlic is a small flowering ground cover that reaches 2 feet in height. It has tuberous roots and grows into a clump with a 1-2 feet spread.
Bright green leaves are long and slender and form dense clusters like large tufts of grass.
Small pink, purple, or white star-shaped flowers with long tubes when in bloom. They grow in clusters on long flower stalks.
Followed by seed pods containing black seeds.
Society Garlic Landscaping Tips
Perennial in areas with temperate winters. Annuals in areas with cooler winters.
Its compact size and shape make it a good candidate for borders.
Emits a garlic scent when they rub against each other due to wind or when something brushes up against it.
Society garlic is edible. May be used in herb gardens and gardening beds. Will help to repel pests that do not like the smell of garlic.
Garnish food with society garlic flowers or stems. People say they taste like pepper, onion, or garlic.
Society Garlic Origin
Society garlic is from temperate regions in southern Africa.
Society Garlic Care
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 10 degrees for a short period of time.
Water: Provide regular water during warm temperatures to keep the colors vibrant. Somewhat drought tolerant.
Sun: Full sun. Partial shade in Palm Springs area.
Society Garlic Problems
Pests: Society garlic is mostly pest-resistant.
Signs of overwatering: Wilting stems, root rot.
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin, dropping leaves
Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation
Society Garlic Propagation
Divide the society garlic clumps in the winter to propagate.
FAQ
How much does Society Garlic cost?
At our nursery, society garlic costs $15 for a 5-gallon container.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
Is society garlic edible?
Yes, it’s great for garnishing food via its flowers or stems. People say they taste like pepper, onion, or garlic.
Should I cut back society garlic?
If society garlic gets damaged from frost or extreme heat, you can cut it back right when ideal temperatures return.
Summary
| SIZE (H X W) | 2 x 2 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | White, Pink, Purple |
| FLOWER SEASON | Spring to Fall |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| WATER | Moderate |
| GROWTH RATE | Moderate |
| HARDINESS | 10º F, USDA Zone 8 |
| PRUNING | None |