Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is a robust perennial herb valued for its bold, savory flavor reminiscent of celery and anise. Towering up to 6 feet tall, this easy-to-grow plant produces aromatic leaves, hollow stems, and attractive umbels of yellow flowers that bloom in summer.
Every part of the plant is useful: the leaves and stems for soups and salads, the seeds as a spice, and the roots for herbal preparations. Rich in history and beloved in European cuisine, Lovage is highly prized for adding depth to broths, stocks, and juices.
Beyond the kitchen, Lovage is a powerful ally in natural gardens, attracting beneficial insects with its floral nectar and offering vibrant structure with minimal care. This cold-hardy herb thrives in temperate climates and makes a fragrant, edible addition to permaculture and cottage gardens.
Features
- Hardy perennial herb with culinary and herbal value
- Tastes like celery with hints of anise
- Attractive yellow umbels that attract pollinators
- Non-GMO and easy to grow in rich soils
- Excellent for soups, stocks, and seasoning blends
Specifications
- Seed Type: Lovage herb seeds
- Botanical Name: Levisticum officinale
- Common Name: Lovage
- Plant Type: Perennial Herb
- Plant Height: 4 – 6 feet
- Zones: USDA Zones 3–9
- Light Requirement: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Rich, well-drained soil
- Germination Time: 14 – 21 days
- Days to Maturity: 80 – 100 days
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Season: Best sown in early spring
- Planting Depth: 1/4 inch
- Spacing: 18 – 24 inches apart
- Optimal Temperature: 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C)
- Watering: Regular watering; do not overwater
- Companion Plants: Thyme, Kale, Nasturtium
- Bloom Time: Summer
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Uses: Culinary herb, pollinator-friendly garden plant
- Storage: Store seeds in a cool, dry place
Planting Guide
- Sow Indoors or Directly: Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost or sow outdoors after frost danger has passed.
- Soil Preparation: Use rich soil amended with compost for hearty growth.
- Watering: Keep soil moist but avoid soggy conditions.
- Care: Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds; divide plants every 3–4 years.
- Harvest: Pick fresh leaves throughout the season; harvest stems and seeds once established.
