Levisticum officinale

The Officinal Lovage or Levisticum officinale is a perennial with large leaves and yellow umbels that emits a strong smell of celery. It is cultivated for its aromatic qualities and decorative appeal when planted alone.

Also known as "Mountain Celery", it has deciduous, green, glossy, basal leaves that are wide and measure 50 to 70 cm (20 to 28in) long, forming a bushy habit from May until the first frost. In July, it produces 15 cm (6in) wide yellow umbels followed by small, aromatic, ovoid, shiny green fruits.

A Levisticum officinale plant thrives in humus-rich, well-drained, and moist soil in a sunny location. It needs to be divided every 3 years. It is an easy-to-grow, hardy plant with rapid growth.

Also known as Perennial Celery, all parts of the plant are used in cooking. The seeds have a spicy taste and are used for vegetables, bread, and marinades. The leaves can be harvested fresh, dried, or frozen to flavour soups, sauces, meats, and stuffings. The dried or ground roots can be used as a pepper substitute. It possesses digestive, diuretic, antiseptic, and stimulating properties for the intestines and kidneys.

In the vegetable garden: Lovage repels pests but inhibits the growth of certain plants. It can be paired with blackcurrant or chilli pepper.