Levisticum

This perennial, known as Lovage or Love Parsley, is a native of southern Europe. Lovage was once thought of as an aphrodisiac, but has settled down to the more simple and honest application as a culinary flavoring. Lovage resembles a tall, much-branched Celery with thin stems. They will grow from 4 to 6 feet high. They bear large, flat clusters of yellow flowers and make a lovely background in the garden. These robust herbs are adaptable and have escaped in some areas. The strong, Celery-like taste and aroma will stand up to cooking.

Pot Cultivation

Lovage will thrive in very rich, moist soil, but not in heavy, waterlogged clay. It prefers light shade to full sun. If your soil is sandy, feed the plants often to encourage good foliage color. When the centers of the plants start to die out, dig the dormant clumps up and split them with a hatchet. Lovage will withstand heavy cutting. Chop tender leaves and stem tips and use to add a Celery flavor to meats, soups, and stews. The stems may be candied. Dry the seeds and sprinkle them on rolls or meat.

Propagation

Buy plants to grow. Starting from seeds takes a long time because it takes 3 to 4 years to reach full size.

L. officinale.

VARIETIES

L. officinale.