How to Grow Licorice Plant
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Licorice Plant
Helichrysum petiolare
herbLicorice plant is a tender perennial shrub native to South Africa, prized for its soft, silvery-gray foliage and trailing growth habit. Despite its common name, it is not the source of culinary licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), but rather valued as an ornamental houseplant and garden accent. It features small, delicate white or cream-colored flowers and aromatic, gray-green leaves with a mild licorice-like scent.
When should you plant Licorice Plant in your zone?
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Example Licorice Plant timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Licorice Plant
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 Plant
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 9b-11; grow as tender annual or houseplant in cooler zones
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Get my Licorice Plant timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny silvery-gray cotyledons emerge; very delicate appearance
Keep soil consistently moist but not wet. Provide bright, indirect light. Protect from strong direct sun initially.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksMultiple stems develop with silvery-gray, narrow leaves; trailing habit becomes apparent
Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Increase light to full sun. Begin fertilizing every 3-4 weeks.
Trailing/Maturation
6-8 weeksPlant forms dense, cascading mound of soft foliage with distinctive silvery appearance
Allow natural trailing form or prune to desired shape. Continue moderate watering and light fertilization.
Flowering
Throughout growing seasonSmall, creamy-white or pale yellow button-like flowers appear along stems and leaf axils
Flowering is light; not the main attraction. Continue regular care. Flowers are optional and can be pinched off to encourage foliage.
Maintenance/Dormancy
3-4 monthsIn cooler climates indoors, plant enters semi-dormant state in winter; foliage may appear less vibrant
Reduce watering and fertilizing. Provide bright light. Pinch back leggy growth. Prepare for spring regrowth.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; remove heavily infested leaves; improve air circulation
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Increase humidity; mist leaves; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; ensure adequate watering
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Yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; remove heavily infested foliage
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Strong spray of water to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; encourage natural predators
Uses
Container & Hanging Basket Accent
HouseholdThe trailing silvery foliage makes licorice plant ideal for cascading from hanging baskets, window boxes, and container gardens. Its soft gray color complements vibrant flowering plants. [source]
Floral Design & Arrangements
CraftStems and foliage are harvested for use in fresh and dried floral arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. The silvery-gray color provides a neutral, elegant accent. [source]
Indoor Houseplant
HouseholdGrown as an attractive tender perennial houseplant in containers, providing soft texture and muted color to indoor spaces. Requires bright light and well-draining soil. [source]
Aromatic Garnish & Scent
CulinaryLeaves have a mild licorice-like aroma and can be used as a delicate garnish for desserts and beverages, though not the true culinary licorice. Primarily valued for scent rather than flavor. [source]
Pollinator-Friendly Plant
WildlifeSmall flowers attract bees and other beneficial pollinators, supporting garden biodiversity while adding ornamental value. [source]
Harvest Tips
Licorice plant is not typically harvested for consumption. Trim stems as needed for shape and to encourage bushier growth; use trimmings in floral arrangements or crafts. In mild climates, can be harvested year-round.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'Licorice Plant,' Helichrysum petiolare is not related to true licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and does not contain licorice flavoring compounds, though its leaves have a mild anise-like scent.
- 🌱 The plant's scientific name 'petiolare' refers to its leaves growing on distinct leaf stems (petioles), distinguishing it from closely related Helichrysum species.
- 🌱 Licorice plant is often called 'Liquorice Plant' or 'Helichrysum' in Europe and is a tender perennial that can be overwintered indoors in cold climates and brought outdoors in summer for container display.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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