Glycyrrhiza glabra

Description

Family: Papilionaceae
Genus: Glycyrrhiza
Species: Glabra
Licorice

Liquorice is the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra from which a sweet flavour can be extracted, it is not related to anise or fennel, which are sources of similar flavouring compounds.The liquorice plant is a legume native to southern Europe, it is a herbaceous perennial, growing to 1 m in height.  It has been traditionally used as medicine in Ayurveda for rejuvenation.

Sowing: In Spring or Winter underglass under glass . Prior to sowing soak seed for 48 hours in warm water. Sow into moist, well-drained soil. Germination temp. 20⁰C. Germination can be slow and irregular, taking from fe weeks to several months. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to individual pots and grow on under glass for their first winter. Plant out when danger of frost has passed. Prefers a deep, fertile, consistently moist sandy soil which is slightly alkaline.