Description
Licorice Seeds
Licorice Seeds (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Grow your own Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), a hardy perennial herb valued for its sweet, aromatic roots. Also known as Sweet Root, licorice has a long history as a traditional herbal plant and makes an interesting addition to the home herb garden.
About Licorice
Licorice is a perennial herb that can grow up to around 1.5 metres tall. During the growing season, it produces attractive blue to violet flowers and develops an extensive root system beneath the soil.
The plant grows best in a sunny position with well-drained soil. Once established, it can make an attractive and useful addition to a herb garden.
Gardeners primarily grow licorice for its roots. These develop their characteristic sweet, anise-like flavour as the plant matures. However, growing this herb requires patience, as the roots generally need around two years of growth before they are ready to harvest.
Growing Licorice from Seed
Licorice seeds have a hard outer coating, so some preparation can help encourage germination. Before planting, scarify the seeds or soak them in water for several hours. This helps soften the seed coat and can improve the chances of successful sprouting.
After preparing the seeds, plant them in a suitable seed-raising mix and keep the growing medium evenly moist. Provide warmth, sunlight and good drainage while the seedlings develop.
Once the young plants become established, they can be transplanted into their growing position. Choose a sunny location where the plants have plenty of room for their roots to develop.
Growing and Harvesting
Licorice develops slowly during its first stages of growth. With suitable growing conditions and a little patience, the plants can establish a strong root system over time.
After approximately two years, the roots can be harvested. Carefully dig around the plant to lift the roots from the soil, then clean and prepare them according to your intended use.
Seed Information
- Botanical name: Glycyrrhiza glabra
- Common name: Licorice
- Also known as: Sweet Root
- Plant type: Perennial herb
- Height: Up to approximately 1.5 metres
- Flowers: Blue to violet
- Growing position: Full sun
- Approximate harvest time: 2 years
Licorice is a rewarding herb to grow for gardeners who enjoy traditional medicinal and culinary plants. With the right preparation and a little patience, you can grow your own plants from seed and eventually harvest the distinctive sweet roots.
