SOCIETY GARLIC
Tulbaghia violacea
A resilient and attractive perennial with edible flowers and leaves.
The chopped leaves can be used in almost anything as a mild garlic flavour in sauces, soups, salads, toasted sandwiches, and as a garnish.
The flowers are also edible and highly ornamental.
Society Garlic makes a great bordering plant and looks fantastic in cottage gardens, kitchen gardens, ornamental borders, and native plant gardens.
Attracts the 3 B's - butterflies, birds, and bees.
Society Garlic is known for its long flowering period, it's tougher than it looks and thrives with minimal care.
Society Garlic forms clumps and spreads slowly via rhizomes but is not considered aggressive. It's also known to deter some pests, including mosquitos.
Society Garlic is drought-tolerant once established and can handle a variety of soil conditions.
It performs best in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soil.
PRICE: $6.00
SIZE: 5cm radius seedling
Society Garlic
Tulbaghia violacea
Australian History
Native to southern Africa, Society Garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) has been embraced in Australia for its ornamental appeal and culinary uses. It has become a popular choice in home gardens across the country due to its resilience and adaptability.
Australian Uses
In Australia, Society Garlic is widely used as both an ornamental plant and a culinary herb. Its leaves and flowers can be chopped into salads, soups, and sauces, providing a mild garlic flavour. It's also used in garden borders, rockeries, and as a container plant. Some gardeners plant it to help deter pests.
Australian Growing Guide
Growing Society Garlic in Australia is relatively easy. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. While it can tolerate drought once established, consistent moisture during its growing season is beneficial. Plant in a position where its garlic scent, released when bruised, is appreciated. Division of clumps can be done in spring or autumn to propagate or manage size.
Australian Landscaping
Society Garlic is a versatile landscaping plant in Australia. It works well as an edging plant, in rock gardens, herb gardens, or mass planted for ground cover. Its long-lasting lilac-pink flowers add colour from summer into autumn. It's suitable for cottage gardens, city gardens, and Mediterranean styles.
Australian Companion Plants
Society Garlic can be grown with other sun-loving perennials and herbs. Good companions can include rosemary, thyme, and sage. Due to its pest-repelling properties, it can be beneficial near vegetables like tomatoes and eggplants. It generally doesn't become overly aggressive.
Australian Disease Resistance
Society Garlic is generally pest and disease-free. Overwatering or poorly drained soils can lead to root rot, so good drainage is important. It is known to be deer resistant.