Difference Between Green Onions, Scallions, Spring Onions and Chives

Here’s a clear breakdown of the differences between these commonly confused greens:

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🌱 Scallion (a.k.a. Green Onion)

• What it is: Young onions harvested before the bulb fully develops

• Bulb: Small, straight, white base (not round)

• Flavor: Mild, fresh onion taste

• Use: Raw in salads, toppings, stir-fries

👉 In most grocery stores, green onions and scallions are the same thing.

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🌿 Spring Onion

• What it is: A more mature onion than scallions

• Bulb: Noticeably rounder and slightly larger

• Flavor: Stronger than scallions but milder than full-grown onions

• Use: Grilled whole, roasted, sautéed

👉 Has a small true bulb forming at the bottom.

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🌾 Chives

• What it is: A different plant species altogether

• Bulb: No noticeable bulb

• Stems: Very thin, hollow, grass-like

• Flavor: Delicate, mild onion flavor

• Use: Garnish, finishing herb, mixed into dips or eggs

👉 Much thinner and more delicate than scallions.

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🧅 Regular Onion (for comparison)

Fully mature onion with a large bulb and papery skin — much stronger flavor.

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🔎 Quick Comparison

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🛒 Simple Rule:

• Long and skinny with no bulb? → Chives

• Small straight white base? → Scallions/Green onions

• Small round bulb forming? → Spring onions

If you’d like, I can also explain which one works best in specific dishes like fried rice, baked potatoes, or omelets.