Growing Licorice-Root (Ligusticum): A Native Perennial Worth Knowing
If you’re looking to add some authentic North American character to your garden, licorice-root might just be the unsung hero you’ve been searching for. This native perennial has been quietly thriving across our continent for centuries, and it’s about time more gardeners discovered its potential.
What Exactly is Licorice-Root?
Licorice-root (Ligusticum) is a perennial forb – basically a fancy way of saying it’s an herbaceous plant without woody stems that comes back year after year. Don’t let the technical terms fool you; this is simply a hardy, non-woody plant that dies back to the ground each winter and resurfaces in spring like a reliable friend.
As a member of the carrot family, licorice-root shares some family traits with more familiar plants like parsley, dill, and fennel. It typically produces clusters of small flowers in umbrella-shaped arrangements that are characteristic of this plant family.
Native Status: A True North American
Here’s where licorice-root really shines – it’s authentically native across an impressive range of North America. From Alaska down to the lower 48 states, across Canada, and even reaching Greenland and St. Pierre and Miquelon, this plant has adapted to diverse climates and conditions. You’ll find it naturally occurring in states from Alabama to Wyoming, and provinces from British Columbia to Newfoundland.
This extensive native range tells us something important: licorice-root is incredibly adaptable and hardy. When a plant thrives naturally across such diverse geography, you know it’s not going to be a prima donna in your garden.
Why Consider Licorice-Root for Your Garden?
There are several compelling reasons to give this native plant a spot in your landscape:
- Low maintenance: As a native plant, it’s already adapted to local conditions and typically requires minimal care once established
- Ecological benefits: Native plants support local wildlife and contribute to biodiversity
- Authentic landscaping: Using natives helps create landscapes that reflect the natural character of your region
- Sustainability: Native plants generally require less water, fertilizer, and pest control
Garden Design and Landscape Use
Licorice-root works well in several garden contexts. Its herbaceous nature makes it suitable for perennial borders, native plant gardens, or naturalized areas. Since it’s a forb rather than a shrub or tree, think of it as a supporting player rather than a starring specimen – perfect for adding texture and authentic native character to mixed plantings.
Consider incorporating licorice-root into:
- Native plant gardens
- Perennial borders
- Naturalized landscapes
- Wildlife-friendly gardens
Growing Conditions and Care
While specific growing requirements can vary depending on which species of Ligusticum you’re growing, most prefer conditions that mirror their natural habitats. Given their wide native distribution, they’re generally quite adaptable, but here are some general guidelines:
Most licorice-root species appreciate cool, moist conditions and can often be found naturally in mountainous areas or along coastlines. They typically prefer well-draining soil and can handle partial shade to full sun, depending on your climate and specific growing conditions.
Getting Started
Since licorice-root encompasses several species within the Ligusticum genus, your first step should be identifying which species is native to your specific area. Contact your local native plant society, extension office, or native plant nursery to determine the best species for your location and specific growing conditions.
When sourcing plants, always choose nursery-grown specimens rather than wild-collected plants to protect natural populations. Many native plant nurseries carry locally appropriate species and can provide specific growing advice for your area.
The Bottom Line
Licorice-root represents the kind of dependable, low-maintenance native plant that makes gardening both easier and more environmentally beneficial. While it might not be the showiest plant in your garden, it offers the satisfaction of growing something truly native to North America – a plant that has been thriving in our landscapes long before European settlement.
For gardeners interested in creating authentic, sustainable landscapes that support local ecosystems, licorice-root deserves serious consideration. Just remember to research the specific species appropriate for your region to ensure the best results.
