Ligusticum canadense, known by the common names of American lovage, boar hog root, and Canadian licorice-root, is a member of the carrot family, Apiaceae. It is native to the eastern United States, primarily in Missouri, Tennessee, Georgia, and North Carolina. Despite its name, the northern range of L. canadense remains hundreds of miles south of the Canadian border. It is a perennial herb growing up to 6 ft (1.8 m) tall.
Canadian licorice-root is fairly disease-resistant and generally not prone to problems. Still, it can be affected by pests and diseases present in its environment. Those issues are usually minor. For care, the plant needs moderate maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to preserve a tidy appearance and support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also help encourage flowering. Canadian licorice-root is well suited to people with outdoor spaces like a garden or patio and does not require extensive gardening experience. It may demand more attention when grown indoors.
How to keep Ligusticum Canadense.
Light
Canadian licorice-root naturally occurs in habitats like forest understories and rocky sites, where it grows under natural shade. It favors partial sun but can adjust to either full sun or full shade, illustrating its hardy and adaptable nature.
Temperature
Canadian licorice-root can endure a wide range of temperatures, but its distribution may still be constrained by various combinations of moisture and heat. It performs best in warm summer conditions with sufficient rainfall or watering. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather, as well as prolonged high temperatures, can raise the chance of the plant dying. In winter, adequate protection from cold can increase its survival rate.
Fertilizer
One application of fertilizer in spring is typically enough for Canadian licorice-root, but additional feedings can enhance growth. Feed every month to six weeks. Fertilizing improves the leaves' appearance and function, helping maintain even color and a healthy texture. It also promotes root development and nutrient uptake for the plant's long-term health.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Ligusticum
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-8
- Mature Height
- 0.91 m to 1.52 m
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall
Other names.
