Ligusticum scothicum

Scottish Lovage, also known as Sea Parsley, in Latin Ligusticum scothicum, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Apiaceae family cultivated for its aromatic foliage and strongly flavored seeds. Its leaves, which have a flavour similar to a mix of celery and parsley, are used fresh. The seeds are dried. Scottish Lovage is used as a seasoning in soups, stews, and marinades, for example. It is planted in spring in a good, humus-rich garden soil that is not too dry but not waterlogged.

Scottish Lovage is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the northern coasts of North America and Eurasia. This species grows near saltwater or brackish water. It forms a clump of leafy stems reaching about 50-55 cm (20-22in) in height and 40-45 cm (16-18in) in width. Its deciduous vegetation emerges quite early in spring, in March, and dries out quite late in autumn, in December. Its leaves, arranged at the base of the plant and on the stems, are divided into nine shiny dark green leaflets. They have a scent similar to parsley, lovage, and celery. The stems are striped with green and red along their length. The discreet summer flowering consists of umbels of white flowers with 5 petals and violet stamens. After pollination by insects, fruits containing the seeds form. Scottish Lovage is often grown in vegetable gardens, but it can also find its place in ornamental gardens, in a slightly wild area.

Scottish Lovage is considered more of an aromatic plant than a vegetable. Use fresh or frozen leaves and dried seeds to flavor soups, stews, raw vegetables, salads, or to season potatoes and boiled meats.

Harvesting: It is done as needed. Use fresh leaves, as they loose their flavour when dried. The seeds are ready to be harvested when they turn brown. Store them in an airtight jar, away from light and in a cool place.

Preservation: The best way to preserve the leaves is by freezing. Finely chop the leaves and place them in an ice cube tray filled with water, then put it in the freezer. Simply add the ice cubes to your dishes.

Gardener's tip: To save on watering, mulch in summer. Scottish Lovage does not like drought or excessively wet and poorly drained soil.