Society garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) is an aromatic and versatile plant that brings beauty and fragrance to any garden. With its attractive star-shaped flowers and garlic-scented foliage, it makes a perfect groundcover for both decorative and practical purposes.

Native to the rocky grasslands of eastern South Africa, this perennial belongs to the Amaryllis family, not the garlic family, and has earned its name due to the mild garlic flavor it imparts without causing the typical bad breath. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to grow, care for, and use society garlic in your garden.

Planting Society Garlic

To grow society garlic, we start by choosing a sunny location with well-drained soil. This plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, although it won't bloom as well in less light. Society garlic prefers light, sandy, or loamy soil with a neutral pH (6.8 to 7.5). If you're planting seeds, it's best to sow them in spring after the last frost, as the seeds will germinate quickly and develop into flowering plants soon after.

When planting, space the tubers about 18 inches apart, allowing them enough room to form their clumps of narrow, arching leaves. Be sure to water them moderately during the growing season. While they are drought-tolerant once established, it's important not to overwater, as the tubers are prone to rot in soggy soil.

Care and Maintenance

Once planted, society garlic is low-maintenance and quite hardy. In USDA hardiness zones 7 through 10, it grows well with minimal care. We should remove any damaged or frost-bitten leaves in late fall and early winter to help the plant prepare for dormancy. Fertilizing with compost or general-purpose fertilizer in early spring can enhance soil fertility and encourage vibrant blooms throughout the summer and fall.

During the blooming season, society garlic produces delicate lilac to lavender-colored flowers arranged in clusters. These fragrant flowers appear atop grassy foliage, and the plant typically reaches a height of 1 to 2 feet. The blooms last from early summer to autumn, adding beauty and fragrance to your garden.

Uses of Society Garlic

Apart from its beauty, society garlic is also known for its culinary uses. Its leaves have a mild garlic flavor, which can be used fresh in salads, soups, or as a garnish for various dishes. The bulbs of society garlic are similar to traditional garlic and can be used in the same way. South African settlers historically used this plant as a substitute for garlic in their cooking.

The crushed leaves of society garlic can also serve as a natural insect repellent, effective against fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. This makes it an excellent addition to garden spaces, especially if you're looking to keep pests at bay while adding an aromatic touch.

Varieties of Society Garlic

While the most common variety of society garlic has lavender flowers and green foliage, there are a few interesting cultivars that stand out. ‘Silver Lace' features lavender flowers with blue-green foliage edged in silver, while ‘Variegata' offers striped green and white leaves, with pinkish-lavender flowers. The ‘Tricolor' variety displays lilac-pink flowers atop silvery-blue foliage with white or pink edges, making it a beautiful addition to any garden.

Propagating Society Garlic

One of the easiest ways to propagate society garlic is by dividing the clumps every two to three years. To do this, we dig up the plant in late autumn or early winter, after the flowers have faded. Separate the clumps carefully and replant them at the same depth in a new location. This method ensures a continuous supply of society garlic for years to come.

Growing Society Garlic in Containers

If you live in a cold-winter climate, society garlic can be grown in containers and brought inside before the first frost. Make sure the container has drainage holes and place the plant in a spot that receives plenty of sunlight. Growing society garlic in pots also makes it easier to control its environment and move it indoors during the colder months.

Common Pests and Diseases

Society garlic is generally resistant to pests when grown outdoors, but those cultivated in greenhouses or containers may attract aphids or whiteflies. To manage these pests, we recommend hosing down the plants with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap to treat the infestations. Additionally, applying a layer of crushed eggshells around the base of the plant can deter soft-bodied pests like snails and slugs.

Growing society garlic in our gardens is a rewarding experience, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. Its striking flowers, combined with its mild garlic flavor and ability to repel pests, make it an ideal choice for any garden. Whether used as a groundcover, border plant, or container specimen, society garlic is sure to thrive with a little attention and care. So, why not add this versatile plant to your garden and enjoy its many benefits all year round?