Yes, There Are Multiple Varieties of Chives—Here's What You Need to Know About Them Kelly Vaughan Like onions, scallions, shallots, leeks, and garlic, chives are part of the allium family. They differ from these other allium crops in that they are perennials and less pungent, says Steve Reiners, professor and horticulture section chair of Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Home cooks use fresh chives as a garnish like other herbs such as parsley or basil to add a finishing touch of savory flavor. Get to know three popular varieties of chives—common chives, garlic chives, and Siberian chives—before cooking with them.