Contents
Description
Glycyrrhiza Glabra is a species of the Fabaceae family and is commonly known as Licorice or Sweet Root. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to southern Europe and parts of Asia. The plant is widely cultivated for its roots, which are used to make candy, beverages, and traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Glycyrrhiza |
Appearance
Glycyrrhiza Glabra grows up to 1 meter tall and has a woody stem. The plant has small, blue-violet flowers that grow in clusters. The leaves are pinnate and have 9-17 leaflets that are oval-shaped and about 1-3 cm long. The roots of the plant are long and fibrous and can be up to 1 cm in diameter. They have a sweet and slightly bitter taste.
Care Guide
Glycyrrhiza Glabra prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant needs full sun and prefers a warm and humid climate. It is drought-tolerant, but regular watering is necessary for the plant to grow well. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Glycyrrhiza Glabra is generally pest-resistant, but it can be attacked by spider mites, aphids, and root-knot nematodes. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew. To control pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overwatering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Glycyrrhiza Glabra is native to southern Europe and parts of Asia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open fields, meadows, and along riverbanks. The plant is widely cultivated in many parts of the world for its roots.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the uses of Glycyrrhiza Glabra?
A: The roots of Glycyrrhiza Glabra are used to make candy, beverages, and traditional medicine.
Q: How often should I water Glycyrrhiza Glabra?
A: Glycyrrhiza Glabra needs regular watering, but it is drought-tolerant. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Glycyrrhiza Glabra?
A: Glycyrrhiza Glabra is hardy to USDA zones 7 to 9.
Q: Is Glycyrrhiza Glabra pest-resistant?
A: Glycyrrhiza Glabra is generally pest-resistant, but it can be attacked by spider mites, aphids, and root-knot nematodes.
Related Plants
- Glycyrrhiza echinata
- Glycyrrhiza glabra
- Glycyrrhiza lepidota
- Glycyrrhiza uralensis
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Glycyrrhiza glabra. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282132
- Plant and Soil Sciences eLibrary. (n.d.). Glycyrrhiza glabra. Retrieved from https://passel.unl.edu/pages/informationmodule.php?idinformationmodule=1112750491&topicorder=3&maxto=7&minto=1
