Wild Licorice
glycyrrhiza echinata
Also known as: ["Wild Licorice","Echinata Licorice"]
Overview
A perennial legume native to the Mediterranean region, known for its sweet roots and traditional medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Glycyrrhiza |
| Botanical Name: | Glycyrrhiza echinata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area, or container with adequate drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; annually after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct indoor light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm to hot temperatures (65–85°F); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; monitor for stress signs.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or root division; stem cuttings can be challenging.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect fresh seeds or divide roots.
- Sow seeds shallowly or plant divisions.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (70–75°F); indirect light for seeds; bright light for divisions.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam for root division.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds: 2–4 weeks for germination; root division: immediate establishment.
Tools Needed
Pruners, trowel, rooting hormone (optional), seed trays or pots.
Quick Tips
Scarify seeds for faster germination; use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back dead stems; shape lightly to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape lightly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for mature plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage in prolonged cold; leaves may turn yellow or drop.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGlycyrrhiza echinata 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-toxicGlycyrrhiza echinata 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-toxicGlycyrrhiza echinata, commonly known as wild licorice, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used traditionally for its sweetening properties and potential medicinal benefits.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Glycyrrhiza echinata the same as Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice)?
A: No, Glycyrrhiza echinata is a distinct species, though both are used for their sweet roots.
Q: Can the roots of Glycyrrhiza echinata be used for culinary purposes?
A: Yes, the roots are sweet and can be used similarly to licorice, but caution is advised due to potential toxicity.
Q: Does Glycyrrhiza echinata attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds, making it beneficial for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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