Liquorice Seeds Glycyrrhiza glabra

Liquorice Seeds – Glycyrrhiza glabra

Liquorice Seeds produce an attractive hardy perennial herb with lush green foliage and a valuable aromatic root renowned for its naturally sweet flavour. Known botanically as Glycyrrhiza glabra, this fascinating herb plant has been cultivated for centuries and makes an unusual addition to herb gardens and edible planting schemes.

The vigorous plants develop attractive pinnate foliage and small lilac-blue flowers during summer. Beneath the soil, Liquorice plants gradually develop their characteristic sweet-tasting roots, which require several years of growth before reaching a useful size.

Rewarding to grow from seed, this unusual perennial herb is ideal for herb gardens, kitchen gardens, large containers, and gardeners interested in growing traditional and unusual plants.

Key Features

Traditional Liquorice plant grown for its naturally sweet roots.

Known botanically as Glycyrrhiza glabra.

Hardy perennial that returns year after year.

Produces attractive green foliage and lilac-blue flowers.

Unusual addition to herb and kitchen gardens.

Best suited to deep, fertile, well-drained soil.

Excellent choice for gardeners interested in unusual herbs.

How to Grow Liquorice Seeds

Sow Liquorice Seeds indoors from February to May in pots or trays filled with moist seed compost.

Soaking the seeds in warm water before sowing can help encourage germination. Sow approximately 1cm deep and keep warm at around 18–22°C.

Germination can be variable, so allow plenty of time for seedlings to emerge.

Transplant seedlings into individual pots once large enough to handle and plant outdoors after they have established.

Grow in a sunny position with deep, fertile, well-drained soil, allowing plenty of room for the extensive root system to develop.

Liquorice Growing Tips

Choose a permanent position where plants have plenty of space.

Use deep soil or large containers to accommodate the developing roots.

Water regularly during prolonged dry periods.

Allow plants several years to establish before considering root harvesting.

Mulch around established plants to help retain moisture and improve the soil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Liquorice easy to grow from seed?
Yes, Liquorice Seeds can be grown successfully, although germination can be slower and more variable than many common herbs.

Is Liquorice a perennial?
Yes, Glycyrrhiza glabra is a hardy perennial that returns each year.

How long does Liquorice take to grow?
Plants require patience, as the roots generally need several years to develop to a useful size.

Can Liquorice be grown in containers?
Yes, but a large, deep container is recommended to provide sufficient room for root development.

Perfect For

Herb gardens

Kitchen gardens

Unusual edible plants

Traditional herb collections

Large containers

Perennial planting

Experienced gardeners

Plant collectors