How to Grow Wild Licorice
Wild Licorice
Glycyrrhiza lepidota
herbWild licorice is a perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America, belonging to the legume family. It produces small yellowish flowers and is valued for its roots, which contain sweet compounds and have been used traditionally in herbal medicine and as a flavoring agent.
When should you plant Wild Licorice in your zone?
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Example Wild Licorice timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Wild 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 Wild Licorice
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Wild Licorice dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, particularly suited to zones 4-8
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Get my Wild Licorice timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-6 weeksSmall green shoots emerge with cotyledons and early true leaves. Plants develop a taproot system.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide full sun. Thin seedlings to proper spacing. Protect from foot traffic.
Vegetative Growth
Several months to first yearPlant develops compound leaves and expands leafy foliage. Root system deepens significantly.
Maintain moderate moisture. Weed regularly to reduce competition. Allow taproot to develop unimpeded. No fertilizer needed once established due to nitrogen-fixing ability.
Flowering
4-8 weeksSmall yellowish or pale purple flowers bloom in loose racemes along the stems, typically in mid-summer.
Flowers indicate maturity approaching. Continue regular watering. Do not deadhead if seeds are desired for propagation.
Seed Production
4-6 weeksFlowers develop into small legume pods containing seeds. Root system continues expanding and accumulating glycyrrhizin.
Allow seed pods to dry on plant. Collect seeds when pods brown and begin to split. Roots continue improving in quality.
Root Maturation
2-3 years minimumRoots expand deeper underground, accumulating sweet compounds and becoming thicker. Plant may die back seasonally.
Roots are typically harvested after 3-4 years when diameter reaches optimal size. Mark plant location for winter harvesting.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Increase humidity; spray with water or neem oil
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Handpick or use row covers; apply neem oil if populations are high
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; remove affected plants
Uses
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalWild licorice root has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to support respiratory health, digestive function, and overall wellness. The root contains glycyrrhizin, a sweet compound with potential anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties. [source]
Natural sweetener and flavoring
CulinaryThe root can be dried and used as a sweetening agent in teas, herbal preparations, and culinary applications. It provides a distinctive licorice flavor without the use of refined sugar. [source]
Herbal tea and decoction
HouseholdDried root pieces can be simmered to create a soothing tea or herbal infusion. The resulting beverage is naturally sweet and has been traditionally consumed for wellness support. [source]
Respiratory support
MedicinalLicorice root has traditionally been used in herbal formulations designed to support respiratory comfort and soothe the throat. [source]
Pollinator and beneficial insect support
WildlifeThe flowers attract bees and other pollinators, making wild licorice valuable in pollinator gardens and native plant landscapes. [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 in autumn after 3-4 years of growth when the plant is dormant. Dig carefully to extract the taproot and rhizomes fully, as they can be quite deep (12+ inches). Clean roots thoroughly and dry completely in a cool, well-ventilated space before storage. Store in airtight containers in a cool, dark location. Some roots can be left in the ground to regenerate for future harvests.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Wild licorice was an important food and medicine for Native American tribes across the Great Plains and western regions, who would harvest and trade the roots.
- 🌱 The name 'Glycyrrhiza' comes from Greek words meaning 'sweet root' (glykys = sweet, rhiza = root), accurately describing the plant's most notable characteristic.
- 🌱 Wild licorice is a nitrogen-fixing plant due to its symbiotic relationship with rhizobial bacteria, meaning it actually improves soil fertility and can reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers in surrounding plants.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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