South African clump-forming perennial with grass-like grey-green leaves and tall stems of lilac star-shaped flower umbels through summer and autumn. Edible mild-garlic-flavoured leaves and flowers without the breath consequences of true garlic.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 7–11 | −17.8 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H4 | −10 °C to −5 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 8–9 | −7 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 3–7 | −5 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Plant in dry sunny borders, rock gardens, and as low evergreen edging in mild climates — flowers continuously through warm months
- Edible leaves and flowers — milder garlic flavour than true garlic with much less breath impact (hence the name), traditional African seasoning herb
- Drought tolerant and heat tolerant — excellent low-water Mediterranean and Australian garden plant
- Variegated cultivar ‘Silver Lace’ is widely grown for foliage
Pet caution: Society garlic is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
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Related plants
Cross-check Society garlic against your zones