Lovage
levisticum officinale
Also known as: ["Meadows Parsley","Garden Lovage"]
Overview
A hardy perennial herb with a strong celery-like flavor, used in culinary and medicinal applications.
Benefits & Perks
["culinary herb","fragrant flowers","medicinal use","cold hardy","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Levisticum |
| Botanical Name: | Levisticum officinale |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) or partial shade; adjust for intense summer sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; protect from harsh winds.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 5–7 days, more frequently in hot, dry conditions
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
rich, moist, well-draining loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during the growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; stop fertilizing in late fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or root division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, plastic bag or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased foliage.
Tools
Sharp pruners or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; needed for vigorous growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; increase frequency in hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-mixed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot in waterlogged soil.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; essential oils may diminish in quality.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLovage is not considered toxic to cats. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLovage is not considered toxic to dogs. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLevisticum officinale, commonly known as lovage, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely used as a culinary herb and has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties without significant toxicity.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is lovage safe for pets?
A: Yes, lovage is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How do I use lovage in cooking?
A: Lovage leaves and stems can be used like celery or parsley in soups, stews, and salads.
Q: Does lovage attract wildlife?
A: Lovage can attract bees and other pollinators with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, more frequen |
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