Chives (scientific name: Allium tuberosum), also known as Chinese chives, belong to the genus Allium, which has been reclassified from the lily family (Liliaceae) to the Amaryllidaceae family. Chives are perennial herbaceous plants that grow in clusters, with long, flat leaves and small white flowers. Chives, also referred to as "qiyangzi," are edible when the leaves and flowers are tender.