Society Garlic

Society Garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) is a rugged and beautiful perennial that is a "must-have" for low-maintenance and water-wise landscapes. Named for the delicate garlic scent of its foliage and flowers, this plant is as functional as it is attractive—it is widely known for being naturally resistant to deer, fire, and even gophers.

From summer through fall, Society Garlic sends up tall, graceful stalks topped with clusters of star-shaped, rose-lavender flowers. The narrow, bluish-green leaves form a tidy clump that works perfectly in rock gardens, borders, or large decorative pots. An added bonus for the culinary gardener: both the flowers and leaves are edible and can be used as a mild seasoning, similar to chives or garlic, in your favorite dishes.

Why you’ll love it:

• Extreme Resilience: Highly tolerant of drought, heat, and poor soil once established.
• Pest Resistant: One of the few plants that is naturally resistant to deer, rabbits, and gophers.
• Long Bloom Season: Beautiful rose-lavender flowers provide color from mid-summer until the first frost.
• Fire-Wise Choice: A top selection for defensible space landscaping in fire-prone areas.
• Edible & Fragrant: Scented foliage helps deter garden pests while providing a mild garlic flavor for cooking.

This 4-inch healthy live plant thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. While it can handle moderate watering, it is exceptionally drought-tolerant once mature. Reaching a size of 1–2 feet tall and up to 1.5 feet wide, it creates a clean, architectural look in the garden. Hardy in USDA Zone 7, Society Garlic is a dependable and versatile performer for any sunny spot.