Glycyrrhiza glabra
liquorice
A woody-based perennial to 1.2m tall, with upright stems bearing sticky leaves to 20cm long, formed of numerous opposite pairs of leaflets. Pale blue to violet flowers are produced in loose, upright spikes in late summer. The roots, which are best harvested in the autumn, are the source of liquorice. An interesting plant for a wild garden or informal border
Synonyms
Glycyrrhiza glandulifera
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Glycyrrhiza are herbaceous perennials with pinnate leaves and white, violet or pale yellow vetch-like flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mediterranean to S.W. Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in deep, fertile, moist soil in full sun. Plants should be at least three years old before the roots are harvested
Propagation
Propagate by sowing seed in containers in a coldframe in spring or autumn. Divide roots, each with one or more growth buds, in early spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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