Genus: Glycyrrhiza

Common Names: licorice, liquorice

A genus of about 22 species of herbaceous perennials. Of them, three species (G. glabra, G. lepidota, and G. uralensis) have a long history of use by humans. G. glabra has been used for medicine, as a flavoring agent, in candy making, and more. G. lepidota has been used by first nations peoples in North America as a food source and in medicine. G. uralensis is one of 50 fundamental herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine.  

Distribution: widespread

Glycyrrhiza glabra

Common name(s): true licorice, Spanish licorice

Description: perennial; an herb used in medicine since at least 2100 BCE as well as for candies and herbal teas. Summer flowers become decorative seed pods and can be removed in late summer to prevent unwanted self-sowing in the garden. Roots can usually be harvested and dried after then second year or third year of growth. Low-maintenance and easy to grow.

Height: to 5 ft. Spread: to 4 ft.

Position: full sun and well-draining soil

Uses: medicine, culinary- herbal tea, to attract pollinators

Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below

Drought: adapted to 4 months of summer drought

Distribution: SE Europe, Arabian Peninsula, West and Central Asia