Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Glycyrrhiza glabra is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring. — Root - raw or used as a flavouring.; The source of liquorice powder that is extracted and used in sweets, baked goods, ice cream, soft drinks etc, it is also used medicinally.; A sweet and delicious flavour, but the root is very fibrous.; The root contains glycyrrhizin, a substance that is 50 times sweeter than sucrose.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry open places, especially in sandy places near the sea. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)