Perennial
Society Garlic
Tulbaghia violacea
Monrovia® varieties
Varieties We Carry
StandardTulbaghia violaceaPastel BlueTulbaghia violaceaAshantiTulbaghia violaceaMonrovia
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$6.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Apr 18.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterModerate
Mature size12-18 inches × 12-18 inches
About Society Garlic
Society Garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) is a clumping perennial from South Africa with slender, strap-like foliage and airy clusters of small lavender-pink tubular flowers held above the leaves. The foliage carries a mild garlic scent and the plant is prized for its nearly year-round bloom in warm climates. Starting at $6.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
- Flower Color
- Pink, Purple
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Grows best in full sun (6+ hours daily); tolerates part sun but flowering decreases noticeably in shade. In NE Florida, full sun positions also help prevent fungal issues in the humid climate.
Water
Drought-tolerant once established in NE Florida's sandy soils; water regularly during the first growing season. Established clumps need minimal irrigation — rely on rainfall supplemented during extended dry periods. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Soil & Fertilizer
Thrives in sandy to loamy, well-drained soils. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring to encourage vigorous bloom. Divide clumps every 2–3 years to maintain vigor. In NE Florida it may bloom nearly year-round in warm years, taking only a brief rest in the coldest months.
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Common questions
Is Society Garlic a good plant for St. Augustine?
Society Garlic is a perennial for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, with medium salt tolerance, reaching 12-18 inches × 12-18 inches.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.