Licorice weed
Scoparia dulcis · Plantaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant licorice weed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Sweet broom, Broom plant
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Type
- Annual or short-lived perennial herb
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn, small white or pale blue flowers
- Foliage
- Deciduous, light green lanceolate leaves
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical America
- Hardiness
- Tender (warm climate preferred, minimum 5 °C)
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moist but well-draining during the growing season. Reduce watering in autumn and winter. Avoid overwatering which promotes root rot. Regular and moderate watering works better than prolonged soaking.
Light exposure
Place the plant in full light or partial shade. It tolerates bright environments well but prefers slight protection from direct rays in very hot climates. Good light encourages compact growth and abundant flowering.
Soil
Prefer light soil rich in organic matter and well-draining. A mix of universal potting soil with sand or perlite improves aeration. Avoid dense substrates that retain too much moisture.
Pruning and training
Pinch the tips in spring to encourage dense branching. Remove dead or bare stems in late winter. Regular light pruning maintains a compact, bushy form.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks during the active growing season (spring-summer). Reduce applications in autumn. Excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites in dry air and aphids in spring. Powdery mildew can appear if humidity is excessive and air circulation is poor. Improve ventilation and avoid foliar watering to reduce risks.
Did you know?
Scoparia dulcis is traditionally used in various folk medicines of tropical regions, particularly for its supposed digestive and purifying properties. Its vernacular name "broom plant" references its fine, branching form and testifies to its historical use; in some regions, small brooms were made from its dried stems. Although well-documented in traditional pharmacopeias, its active compounds remain poorly studied by modern Western science.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.