Astragalus glycyphyllos
Astragalus glycyphyllos · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant astragalus glycyphyllos: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, composed of 15 to 20 leaflets
- Flowering
- June to August, pale yellow flowers in clusters
- Mature size
- 30 to 60 cm in height, spreading habit
- Growth
- Moderate to fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, tolerates down to –20 °C
- Origin
- Central and southern Europe, western Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, calcareous, tolerates poor soils
Care
Watering
Wild licorice is very tolerant of drought once established. Water moderately at planting time and during the first few weeks, then gradually reduce. Under normal conditions, natural rainfall is sufficient; during prolonged drought, occasional watering promotes better flowering.
Light exposure
Prefer a location in full sun for optimal flowering. The plant tolerates partial shade but will produce fewer flowers. Avoid areas that are too humid and poorly ventilated.
Soil and preparation
This plant appreciates well-drained soils, even calcareous or poor ones. Enrich the soil with compost moderately at planting time. Improve drainage in heavy soil by adding sand or gravel.
Fertiliser
No fertiliser is necessary in normal soil. As a legume, wild licorice fixes atmospheric nitrogen. A very light application of compost in early spring is enough to support growth.
Pruning and cutting
No pruning is mandatory. Light cutting back in late winter or after flowering can promote a more compact habit. Remove dead or damaged parts in spring.
Diseases and pests
Wild licorice is very robust and little susceptible to common diseases. In overly wet soil, watch for root rot. No specific pest significantly threatens it.
Did you know?
Astragalus glycyphyllos takes its name from the Greek 'glykys' (sweet) and 'phyllon' (leaf), as its leaflets release a slight sweet flavour when crushed. Although called 'wild licorice', it does not contain the specific compounds of true licorice (Glycyrrhiza), but was long used in traditional European pharmacopoeia for its presumed tonic properties.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.