American Licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota) is a perennial herb native to North America, known for its sweet, earthy flavor derived from its roots. While similar to the more widely known European Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), American Licorice is a distinct species with slightly different growing habits and uses. This plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its soothing properties, particularly in digestive health and respiratory care. American Licorice grows tall with feathery, green leaves and produces spikes of purple or pink flowers in the summer. The roots of this plant, when harvested, can be dried and used for teas, extracts, and various herbal preparations. Whether you’re looking to grow it for its culinary or medicinal properties, American Licorice is a hardy, low-maintenance addition to any garden.

Key Features:

• Sweet, Earthy Flavor: The root of American Licorice has a natural sweetness and earthy flavor, often used in herbal teas and natural sweeteners.
• Traditional Medicinal Uses: Known for its digestive and respiratory benefits, American Licorice has been used for centuries in herbal medicine.
• Perennial Herb: This hardy herb returns year after year, providing long-term value for gardeners.
• Attractive Foliage: With feathery, green leaves and spikes of purple or pink flowers, American Licorice is a visually appealing plant in the garden.
• Drought-Tolerant: Once established, American Licorice is highly drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.
• Pollinator-Friendly: The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a valuable plant for pollinator gardens.

Growing Information:

Light Requirements:
American Licorice grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. For optimal growth and a larger harvest of roots, it should receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.

Soil Preferences:
American Licorice prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH (6.5-7.5). It thrives in soil that is rich in organic matter, so amending the soil with compost can help improve growth. While it can tolerate a variety of soil types, good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging.

Planting Tips:
Sow American Licorice seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost or directly outdoors once the soil warms. To start indoors, place the seeds in small pots, lightly covering them with soil. Keep the soil moist and at a temperature of 65-75°F (18-24°C) for germination. Seeds typically take 2-3 weeks to germinate. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, harden them off by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions and transplant them outside after the danger of frost has passed. Space the plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for their growth and spreading.

Watering Needs:
American Licorice prefers consistently moist soil, particularly during its early growth stages. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant and can handle periods of dryness. However, it benefits from regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods. Be sure to water deeply and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, as the plant does not tolerate standing water.

Benefits:

Culinary Uses:
While American Licorice isn’t as widely used as its European counterpart, the roots of the plant can be harvested and used to make herbal teas, natural extracts, or as a flavoring agent in candies and syrups. The root has a distinct, sweet flavor with hints of anise and is often used in homemade licorice or other confections.

Medicinal Benefits:
American Licorice has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine. Its roots are often used for digestive health, helping to soothe stomach discomfort, indigestion, and bloating. It is also believed to have mild anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for soothing sore throats, coughs, and respiratory issues. Additionally, it has been traditionally used to support adrenal health and balance hormone levels. Always consult a healthcare provider before using licorice for medicinal purposes, as excessive use can have side effects.

Pollinator-Friendly:
The plant’s spikes of purple or pink flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens. Its flowers also provide beauty and interest in the garden, especially during the summer months.

Drought-Tolerant:
Once established, American Licorice is highly drought-tolerant, requiring minimal care. This makes it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens or xeriscaping projects, as it can thrive even in periods of dry weather.

Growing Zones:
American Licorice is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4-9. It is a hardy perennial that can withstand colder temperatures in winter and will come back year after year, making it a great long-term addition to the garden.

How to Use in the Garden:

Herb Gardens:
American Licorice is a valuable addition to herb gardens, both for its unique flavor and its medicinal properties. It pairs well with other aromatic herbs such as mint, thyme, and rosemary, and its tall stature makes it ideal for the back of garden beds or herb borders.

Pollinator Gardens:
This herb is an excellent choice for a pollinator-friendly garden. Its fragrant flowers attract a variety of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, helping to support pollinator populations and enhance the health of your garden ecosystem.

Medicinal Garden:
If you are creating a medicinal herb garden, American Licorice should be included for its traditional use in herbal medicine. It can be planted alongside other medicinal herbs such as echinacea, chamomile, and peppermint for a diverse and healing garden.

Companion Planting:
American Licorice’s deep roots and drought tolerance make it a useful companion for other plants that prefer drier conditions or need protection from pests. Its leaves and flowers can act as a natural mulch for surrounding plants, helping to maintain soil moisture and temperature.

Conclusion:
American Licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota) is a hardy, versatile perennial herb with a rich history of culinary and medicinal uses. Known for its sweet, earthy flavor and soothing properties, it is a valuable plant to grow in your garden. Whether you’re using it to make herbal teas, natural sweeteners, or for its medicinal benefits, American Licorice offers a wide range of uses. Its drought tolerance, attractive flowers, and ability to support pollinators make it a great addition to a variety of garden styles, from herb gardens to pollinator-friendly landscapes. With minimal care and long-term benefits, American Licorice is a wonderful plant for any gardener looking to add diversity, flavor, and wellness to their garden.