A hardy perennial, Allium sativum, of Asiatic origin and belonging to the plant order Liliales. Garlic is grown for its pungent bulbs, segments of which are used primarily for seasoning. Europeans have grown it for more than 200 years. Propagation is commonly by bulb segments, sometimes called cloves; seeds are seldom produced. Cultural practices are similar to those used for onions. Popular varieties are Italian, Tahiti, and Creole or Mexican. Harvest of the mature dry bulbs is 7–8 months after planting. Garlic salt is made from dehydrated cloves. California is the most important producing state; smaller acreages are planted to garlic in Louisiana and Texas.