Photo By Pharaoh han , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

How to Grow and Care for Licorice

Licorice, also known as Liquorice, Sweet Root, Licorice Root, Spanish Liquorice, Cultivated licorice

Licorice is generally considered easy to grow. Critical to its care are well-draining soil and full sun exposure; these facilitate the robust growth of its deep root system. Overwatering should be avoided, as licorice is drought-resistant and prone to root rot in overly moist conditions. Periodic pruning keeps the plant manageable and encourages healthy growth.

Watering schedule: Every week

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

In This Article

Planting and Growing Licorice

Toughness	High
Care Level	Medium
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every week
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil pH	6-7.5
Hardiness Zones	7-10

A Botanist in Your Pocket

Scan QR code to download

Common Pests & Diseases

Feedback

Common issues for Licorice based on 10 million real cases

Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App for Free

More General Info About Licorice

Feedback

Quickly Identify Licorice

Feedback

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Licorice is characterized by its upright, herbaceous growth habit often reaching up to 3-4 feet (about 90-120 cm) in height. It displays compound leaves with oblong leaflets arranged in pairs and has small purple to pale whitish-blue flowers typically clustered in spikes. The plant produces elongated, flat pods containing several seeds. It features extensive root systems, with thick, fibrous roots that are pivotal for identification. The foliage is typically a lush green, adding to its distinctive appearance.