Lovage
Levisticum officinale
Plant Images
OneSeed Image
Description
Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is a robust perennial herb native to Southern Europe and parts of Asia, belonging to the Apiaceae family, which includes other aromatic herbs such as parsley and celery. It is characterized by tall, hollow stems and glossy, dark green leaves that resemble those of celery. Lovage can grow up to 2 meters in height and produces umbels of small yellow flowers in the summer. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, lovage plays a significant role as a dynamic accumulator, drawing nutrients from deep within the soil with its extensive root system, which helps aerate the soil and improve its structure. It is an excellent addition to the herbaceous layer in food forests, attracting beneficial insects such as hoverflies and parasitic wasps, which help control pest populations. Historically, lovage has been used in traditional European cuisines and herbal medicine, valued for its aromatic and medicinal properties.
Growing Details
Lovage thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH. Before planting, incorporate well-rotted compost or manure to enhance soil fertility. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as marigolds can help deter pests, while planting near nitrogen-fixing plants like clover can enhance soil fertility. Common beginner mistakes include overwatering and planting in poorly drained soil. Harvest leaves in the mornin
Edible Parts
Leaves
Seed
Stem
Flowers
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Scented Plant
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Levisticum officinale</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Southern Europe and parts of Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of Jun for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
middle
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: All parts of the lovage plant are edible, including the leaves, stems, seeds, and roots. The leaves can be used fresh in salads or cooked in soups and stews, imparting a celery-like flavor. The seeds are often used as a spice, similar to fennel or caraway, and the roots can be cooked as a vegetable or used to flavor broths. The leaves are best harvested in spring and early summer for optimal flavor.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Lovage has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its diuretic properties, helping to relieve water retention and support kidney function. It is also used to aid digestion, reduce flatulence, and alleviate symptoms of colds and flu. The essential oil extracted from lovage is used in aromatherapy for its calming and soothing effects. However, it should be used with caution by individuals with kidney problems or those who are pregnant, as it can stimulate uterine contractions.
health concerns: Lovage should be used with caution by individuals with kidney problems or those who are pregnant, as it can stimulate uterine contractions.
other uses: Lovage can be used as a natural insect repellent and as a mulch to improve soil health.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Levisticum officinale</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Levisticum officinale
common names: Lovage; Garden Lovage; Smellage
family: Apiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Levisticum
Growing Conditions
area needed: 1.0 m
spacing: 0.75 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
(5/10)
first harvest: 2 years
life span: 10 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 2.0 m
max width: 1.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Lovage thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH. Before planting, incorporate well-rotted compost or manure to enhance soil fertility. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as marigolds can help deter pests, while planting near nitrogen-fixing plants like clover can enhance soil fertility. Common beginner mistakes include overwatering and planting in poorly drained soil. Harvest leaves in the mornin
Potential Disturbances: Lovage is relatively resilient but can occasionally be affected by aphids and leaf miners. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to manage aphid populations. Planting garlic or chives nearby can offer natural repellence. For leaf miners, remove and destroy affected leaves to prevent spread.
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Download QR Code
Loading comments...