Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is an imposing and aromatic herb that has been a staple in European cuisine and traditional medicine for centuries. Sometimes called “mountain celery” for its strong, distinctive scent, its flavor profile is notably more intense and deeper than common celery. Its leaves, stems, roots, and seeds are all utilized, making it a highly versatile addition to any garden or kitchen.
Defining Lovage and Its Life Cycle
Lovage is a true, hardy herbaceous perennial, meaning it is built to survive multiple growing seasons. As a member of the Apiaceae family, it shares relatives with parsley, carrots, and celery. This structure allows the plant to establish a large, deep taproot, which stores the energy needed to return each spring.
The plant can achieve an impressive stature, often reaching heights between four and seven feet, with large, dark green leaves that resemble flat parsley. In cold climates, the foliage dies back completely to the ground in late fall or early winter, entering a period of dormancy. However, the established root system remains viable underground, ready to sprout new growth once warmer weather returns. This cycle of dying back and regrowing ensures its longevity.
Essential Cultivation Requirements
Lovage thrives best in rich, well-draining, and consistently moist soil. Amending the planting area with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, helps meet its needs as a heavy feeder. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic, generally falling between 6.5 and 7.0.
While the plant can handle full sun, it often prefers partial afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. This protection helps keep the leaves tender and delays the plant’s tendency to bolt, or send up a flower stalk, which can cause the leaves to become bitter. Consistent moisture is paramount; the soil should never be allowed to dry out completely, necessitating deep, regular watering.
Given its considerable height and spread (up to three feet wide), adequate spacing is necessary to allow for good air circulation and prevent fungal issues. Maintenance involves trimming the leaves regularly to encourage fresh growth and removing the flower stalks (deadheading) if the goal is to maximize leaf harvest. Propagation is easily accomplished either by sowing seeds or, for faster results, by dividing the established root crown in early spring.
Culinary and Herbal Applications
The entirety of the Levisticum officinale plant is edible, but its bold, celery-like flavor demands moderation in the kitchen. The fresh leaves are typically chopped finely and added to soups, stews, stocks, and salads, where they impart a savory, deep note that can easily overpower delicate dishes. Because the flavor is concentrated, a single leaf provides the equivalent punch of an entire celery stalk.
The hollow stems can be harvested and used like celery, or candied to create a unique confection. Once the plant flowers, the seeds can be collected and dried, serving as a spice in baking, pickling, or as an addition to rice and vegetable dishes. The fleshy roots have a long history of use in traditional herbal remedies, prepared as an infusion or decoction to aid in digestion or as a diuretic.