Description

Key Information:

Soil: Hydric (Moist) – Xeric (Dry)
Sun: Full Sun – Part Sun
Height: 1-3 feet
Bloom Color: Cream White
Bloom Season: June – July
*Salt tolerant*

More Details:

Suggested Uses: Wild Licorice is a particularly nice legume for use in any learning garden as there are so many interesting uses and facts about this plant. Mostly found on clay soils, but grows well on deep loose sandy gravelly soils, as well! Its roots are rhizomatous.

Native Range:  Most common in the western half of the U.S. Native throughout most of Minnesota although MN is on the eastern edge of its range.

Pollinators/Habitat: Is the host plant for the larval stage of the Silver-Spotted Skipper and a nectar source for the adult. Seeds are eaten by upland game birds.

Flowers:  White flowers give rise to conspicuous clusters of reddish brown, hooked spiny fruit pods.

Leaves:  Pinnately compound leaves are thick, smooth and somewhat glossy

Interesting Facts

Medicinal Uses: The roots are said to sooth a tooth ache when chewed. A tea can be made to relieve coughs and sore throats and has many other medicinal uses! Consume at your own risk.
Food Uses:  Used for licorice flavoring
Other Names: American Licorice

More information: USDA plant profile