Herb Specifications
- Season: Perennial
- USDA Zones: 7 - 10
- Height: 48 inches
- Bloom Season: Mid summer to early fall
- Bloom Color: Lavender
- Environment: Full sun
- Soil Type: Rich soil, ph 6.6 - 7.8
Planting Directions
- Temperature: 68F
- Average Germ Time: 21 - 60 days
- Light Required: No
- Depth: 1/4 inch
- Sowing Rate: 1 - 2 seeds per plant
- Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination
- Plant Spacing: 24 - 36 inches
- Note: Seeds require scarifying (nicking hard seed coat with small file or sandpaper) and pre soaking for 24 hours prior to sowing.
Spanish Licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra) - Licorice is a tall, shrub-like perennial that readily establishes from herb seeds. It is attractive growing in the herb garden with lavender-blue flowers in the summer and early fall. The Licorice plant is a legume and is native to Southern Europe and parts of Asia. It is the Licorice root that is harvested for both culinary and medicinal use. It is not related to anise, star anise, or fennel, which all have a similar taste.
Licorice, or sometimes spelled Liquorice, grows best in sub-tropical climates, in rich, well-drained soils, and in full sun. Once the plant is three years of age, the roots are harvested in the autumn. Commercially, Licorice root is used to make candy, liquor, as a sweetening in teas and to make extracts. The extracts are used to flavor soft drinks, tobacco, and pharmaceutical products.
Licorice root has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb. Teas made from the root are used to soothe sore throats and coughs. Licorice also has anti-inflammatory properties and is used for arthritis pain and inflammation. It is a mild laxative and seems to soothe gastrointestinal conditions.
Start the Licorice herb seeds in the early spring indoors. It is recommended to soak the seed in tepid water for 24 hours before sowing. Keep the herb seed moist but not soggy until germination occurs. Transplant the Licorice herb plants outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Space the plants 24 - 36 inches apart in the herb garden.
