American Licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota), also known as Wild Licorice, is a hardy North American perennial herb native to prairies, meadows, and stream edges. This plant produces elegant white flowers in summer and develops aromatic roots historically used for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Thriving in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soils, American Licorice is ideal for native plant gardens, prairie restoration, and pollinator-friendly landscapes. Its nitrogen-fixing ability improves soil health, making it an eco-friendly addition to any garden. White flowers attract bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems while adding ornamental beauty.
Features
- White flowering perennial native herb
- Aromatic roots historically used for medicinal purposes
- Supports pollinators and wildlife in native landscapes
- Non-GMO seeds suitable for wildflower and prairie gardens
- Drought-tolerant once established
Specifications
- Seed Type: American Licorice native herb seeds
- Botanical Name: Glycyrrhiza lepidota
- Common Names: American Licorice, Wild Licorice
- Plant Type: Perennial herbaceous plant
- Plant Height: 2 – 3 feet
- Zones: USDA Zones 3 – 8
- Light Requirement: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Well-draining soil, sandy to loamy
- Germination Time: 14 – 28 days (scarification recommended)
- Days to Maturity: 2 – 3 years to full establishment
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Season: Spring or fall sowing
- Planting Depth: 1/4 inch
- Spacing: 12 – 18 inches apart
- Optimal Temperature: 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C)
- Watering: Moderate; tolerates drought once established
- Companion Plants: Prairie grasses, Echinacea, Black-eyed Susan, Goldenrod
- Bloom Time: Summer
- Flower Color: White
- Uses: Pollinator gardens, prairie restoration, herbal use, ornamental plantings
- Storage: Store seeds in a cool, dry location until sowing
Planting Guide
- Seed Preparation: Scarify seeds by nicking or soaking in warm water for 12–24 hours to improve germination.
- Sowing: Sow directly outdoors or start indoors in pots; press lightly into soil without covering completely.
- Location: Choose full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil.
- Watering: Keep soil moist until seedlings establish; reduce watering once mature.
- Maintenance: Low-maintenance; prune dead stems after flowering to encourage healthy growth.
- Wildlife Note: Flowers attract bees and butterflies; roots historically used for herbal applications.
