Liquorice Root
Hedysarum boreale mackenziifam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 04CE — Hedysarum boreale mackenzii
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IOverview
Overview
Liquorice Root (Hedysarum boreale mackenzii) is a perennial herb that thrives in full sun and moist to well-drained soils ranging from light sandy to heavy clay. Native to regions including Idaho, Magadan, Newfoundland, Nunavut, Oregon, and Yukon, this plant is valued for its edible root, which can be used in various culinary applications. One distinctive feature of Liquorice Root is its small stature, typically reaching only 0.1 meters in height. Its adaptability to a wide range of soil pH levels (5.2–8) makes it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes across its native range.
Quick answers
What is Liquorice Root?
Liquorice Root (Hedysarum boreale mackenzii) is a perennial herb that thrives in full sun and moist to well-drained soils ranging from light sandy to heavy clay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Liquorice Root thrives in full sun and prefers moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH between 5.2 and 8. It is hardy in zones 3-7 and grows as a perennial, reaching heights of about 0.1 meters. For propagation, use the root, which can be divided or grown from seed. Ensure consistent moisture to keep this plant healthy.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-7
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.1 m tall
Soil pH
5.2–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Liquorice Root for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Liquorice Root in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Liquorice root seeds or young plants, a garden fork, compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring after the last frost or late summer before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy. Ensure the pH is between 5.2 and 8.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start young plants indoors before transplanting them outdoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize sparingly with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead foliage in late winter to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough sunlight, using the wrong fertilizer.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Liquorice (Hedysarum boreale mackenzii) is edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. Typically, it is used in teas or dried for longer storage. SKIP
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 6 native
Broader regions
native:Idaho, Magadan, Newfoundland, Nunavut, Oregon, Yukon
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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