Lovage

Lovage (Levisticum officinale), is a large aromatic perennial, used as a condiment and medicinal herb, belonging to the Apiaceae family, which is the origin of celery and turnips in our vegetable gardens. It is an impressive perennial vegetable, reaching over 2 m (7 feet) in height when in flower. Known in cuisine, it is used sparingly for its pronounced flavour of wild celery, but also in aromatherapy for its diuretic, sedative, and digestive properties, amongst others. With its abundant foliage and large umbels of yellow flowers, it also has a place in the ornamental garden. Plant it in full sun or partial shade, in slightly calcareous, deep, moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil, where it will easily self-seed.