Glycyrrhiza glabra
Cultivated licorice
Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Glycyrrhiza glabra.
General Information
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Moist
Sand (light) Loam (medium)
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Partial shade, Full sun
Usage properties
Root, Tea, Sweetener
Nitrogen fixer, Fibre
Description
Licorice root - consumed both raw and used as a flavoring. It is the source of licorice powder, which is extracted and used in candy, pastries, ice cream, soft drinks, and more, as well as for medicinal purposes. Although this root has a delicious sweet flavor, it is very fibrous. The root contains glycyrrhizin, a substance that is 50 times sweeter than sugar. Dried root is often chewed, which is beneficial for children teething and also serves as a natural tooth cleaner. A tea made from the roots is an excellent thirst quencher. Ground root is also used as a sweetener in other herbal teas. Additionally, the leaves are used as a tea substitute in Mongolia.