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Liquorice Plant : Complete Guide And Care Tips

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The Liquorice Plant: Complete Guide and Care Tips

Gardening is a wonderful hobby that can be both relaxing and rewarding.

There are countless varieties of plants to choose from, but have you ever considered growing liquorice? This unique plant not only adds a unique flavor to your garden but also has medicinal properties.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the liquorice plant, from its history to its care tips.

A Brief History of the Liquorice Plant

Liquorice has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties as well as its sweet taste.

It was originally grown in Asia and Europe and was brought over to America by colonists in the 17th century.

Today, it is primarily grown in Spain, Italy, Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan and China.

Types of Liquorice Plants

  • Glycyrrhiza Glabra – The most common type that is used for food flavoring because it contains high levels of glycyrrhizin which gives it a sweet taste.
  • Glycyrrhiza Uralensis – Used more for traditional medicines because it doesn’t contain as much glycyrrhizin as Glycyrrhiza Glabra does so it’s not ideal for food flavoring or candy making.

Care Tips for Growing Liquorice Plants

If you’re interested in growing liquorice at home here are some tips:

liquorice

  • Location: The best place to grow liquorice plants is in full sun or partial shade with well-draining soil that’s rich with organic matter like compost or manure.
  • Watering: Water your liquorice regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater it because it doesn’t like soggy soil.

    Liquorice plants are drought-tolerant so they can go a few days without water.

  • Fertilizing: Fertilize your liquorice plant with compost or manure in the early spring before new growth appears.

    Avoid fertilizing during the rest of the growing season as it can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of root development.

  • Pruning: Prune your liquorice plants in late fall or early winter after they’ve gone dormant for at least a month.

    Cut back all stems to about 6 inches above ground level and remove any dead or diseased wood.

Harvesting Liquorice Plants

The roots of liquorice plants are typically harvested after three years when they are big enough to yield substantial amounts of glycyrrhizin.

To harvest, dig up whole roots in early autumn just before frost sets in and remove any soil that clings to them with a soft brush then store them away for drying as fresh roots contain too much moisture which will cause rotting.

Potential Health Benefits

Liquorice has been used historically for its medicinal properties such as soothing sore throats and coughs, treating stomach ulcers and even reducing symptoms associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV).

It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant properties that make it an effective natural remedy for various ailments.

However, consuming large amounts of glycyrrhizin-containing products like candy may lead to some potential side effects including hypertension (high blood pressure), edema (swelling), muscle weakness and headache so moderation is key!

In Conclusion

The liquorice plant is unique not only because of its sweet taste but also for its medicinal properties.

Growing liquorice at home can be a fun and rewarding experience that provides you with a plant that is not only beautiful but has health benefits as well.

Remember to follow the care tips we’ve provided to ensure your liquorice plant thrives in your garden.

liquorice

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