Licorice is an old-time favorite for its sweet-bitter root tastes popular in candies. It is a perennial plant that spreads through its rhizome root system. You can plant it from seed, just be ready for the long haul. To be able to take a harvest of licorice you will need to tend to it for 3-5 years before it is ready to harvest. If you are a home grower you may take a small harvest around year 3, otherwise commercial growers recommend holding out until years 4 and 5. When starting your seeds, be sure to soak the seeds overnight and sow on the soil's surface. Do not cover the seeds. Though these seeds take time to care for, they will provide you with delicate purple flowers each year until your awaited harvest.

Check out our Herb Growing Guide for helpful growing tips and information.