How to Grow Licorice
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Licorice
Glycyrrhiza glabra
herbLicorice is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Western Asia and the Mediterranean region, prized for its sweet-tasting roots which contain glycyrrhizin. The plant produces small pale blue, purple, or yellow flowers and grows 3-4 feet tall with compound leaves. It has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and as a flavoring agent.
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Example Licorice timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Licorice
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Licorice
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9; prefers warmer climates but can tolerate cold winters with mulching
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Get my Licorice timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-4 weeksSmall seedlings with cotyledons emerge, developing first true leaves; growth is slow initially
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bottom heat (70-75°F) to improve germination rates. Seeds are slow to germinate (2-3 weeks)
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsPlant develops compound pinnate leaves and a strong root system. Stems grow taller and more robust with each passing month
Water moderately. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Apply light fertilizer monthly. Thin seedlings to proper spacing
Established Plant
1-2 yearsPlant reaches full height (3-4 feet) with dense foliage and established deep root system. Rhizomes and runners begin developing underground
Reduce watering frequency. Minimal fertilizing needed. Weeds become less of an issue. Monitor for pests. The plant becomes increasingly drought-tolerant
Flowering
Summer months (2-3 months)Small flowers appear in loose spikes along the stems; typically pale blue, purple, or yellow colored
Allow flowers to develop; they indicate the plant's maturity. Flowers are attractive but not essential for root development. Can be deadheaded if preferred
Harvest Ready
Year 3-4Roots have reached harvestable size (3-4 years old), containing optimal glycyrrhizin concentration. Rhizomes are thick and sweet
Only harvest after 3 full growing seasons for maximum root development. Roots can be left in ground longer (4-5 years) for larger yields
Common Pests
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; use well-draining soil amended with perlite; apply fungicide if detected early
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Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation; apply copper fungicide; avoid overhead watering
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Spray with strong water stream; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs
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Increase humidity; spray with water; use neem oil or sulfur spray; ensure proper ventilation
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and
Remove by hand in early morning; apply diatomaceous earth; create copper barriers; use beer traps
Uses
Confectionery and beverages
CulinaryLicorice root is used to flavor candies, beverages, and liqueurs. The extract provides natural sweetness 30-50 times sweeter than sugar and is used in traditional licorice candies worldwide. [source]
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalLicorice has been used for millennia in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine to support digestive health, soothe throat discomfort, and promote overall wellness. The root is often made into tea or tincture. [source]
Respiratory support
MedicinalLicorice root has been traditionally used to ease throat irritation and support respiratory function, making it a common ingredient in throat lozenges and herbal cough remedies. [source]
Natural sweetener and flavoring
HouseholdLicorice extract serves as a natural sweetening and flavoring agent for foods, beverages, and herbal formulations without the calories of added sugars. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe delicate flowers attract pollinators including bees and other beneficial insects, supporting garden biodiversity and ecosystem health. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest roots after 3-4 years of growth when they have developed sufficient glycyrrhizin content. Dig carefully in fall or early spring to avoid damaging the roots. Roots can be excavated, cleaned, dried, and stored for extended periods. To propagate, save small root pieces with 'eyes' and plant them for new plants. Fresh roots can be chewed or dried for tea.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Licorice has been cultivated for at least 4,000 years, with evidence of its use in ancient Egypt, China, and India for both medicinal and culinary purposes.
- 🌱 The sweetness in licorice root comes from glycyrrhizin, which is 30-50 times sweeter than table sugar but contains zero calories.
- 🌱 A single licorice plant can produce 5-10 pounds of harvestable roots when mature, and the roots can live and regenerate for 15+ years if left in the ground.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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