Society Garlic

(Tulbaghia violacea)

Society garlic is a fabulous garlicky flavoured strappy green leaf plant that is actually a member of the lily (Amaryllidaceae) family and not related to garlic at all. It is an excellent alternative in warmer climates though as it is drought hardy and grows all year round. It’s so hardy that Brisbane City Council often use it in their verge planting!

The flowers are also edible, but I would stick to garnishing savoury meals with them as they’re also garlicky in flavour. Not great on cakes!

There is a variegated version but I haven’t found that as successful so I stick to the plain green leafed version. When your clump gets big simply dig it up and divide it and you’ll have more plants to go around!

full sun, drought hardy, 30cm tall