🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
The root is the primary edible part, used as a sweetener and flavoring agent. Medicinally, it is used for coughs, colds, and digestive issues. It can be used as a groundcover. Consider that Ural licorice is slightly different in chemical composition than Glycyrrhiza glabra, so medicinal effects may vary.
Permapeople description
Glycyrrhiza uralensis is a plant species in the legume family. It is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Botanical description
Glycyrrhiza uralensis is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Fabaceae family, typically growing to a height of 1-2 meters. It features pinnately compound leaves with numerous leaflets. The flowers are pea-like, typically purplish-blue, and borne in axillary racemes. The fruit is a legume, containing several seeds. The root system is extensive and rhizomatous, allowing for vegetative propagation.
Companion planting
Information on companion planting is limited, but licorice is generally considered a beneficial plant due to its nitrogen-fixing abilities. Avoid planting near plants that are sensitive to allelopathic compounds, as licorice may exhibit some allelopathic effects.
Propagation methods
Propagation can be achieved through seed sowing, root cuttings, or division of the rhizomes. Seed scarification may improve germination rates. Root cuttings should be taken in the dormant season. Rhizome division is best done in spring or fall.
History and traditions
Licorice root has a long history of medicinal use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where it is known as Gan cao. It is considered a harmonizing herb, used to balance the effects of other herbs in formulas. It has also been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties in various cultures.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in summer. Harvesting of the roots is typically done in the fall, after the plant has died back. Planting can be done in spring or fall. Pruning is generally not required, but dead or damaged stems can be removed.