A cute flower that is just popping up around the city - but it won't make it to the florist. This might just be the cheapest 'bouquet' that I've gotten yet...

These are chive blossoms, a tiny member of the allium family. Normally we only see the stems in bundles, and aren't treated to the sight of their little blossoms.

Not only good for cooking, the chive is also great as a plant in the garden to ward off animals and insects.

A small bundle cost a dollar at the local farmer's market, not sure how long they will be there - but they are appearing at many stands. They look pretty as they hang out in a vase and wait to be used, and I was surprised that their smell was not that strong. We've been using the blossoms as garnish on omelets, but on little bunch lasts a long time for us!

One hint I have been given is to cut the stems up, put them in ice cube trays, then fill with water and freeze. When you want fresh chives for a recipe just thaw an ice cube.

And, as it turns out, Faith has been enjoying them for weeks over at The Kitchen. You can read about her growing them in containers, as well as her suggestion on using the separate florets as garnish.

You can also read more on them at the Wikipedia entry, which is where this beautiful image comes from.

matt at apartment therapy dot com