Lovage Seeds

Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is a tall, robust perennial herb whose glossy leaves and hollow stems taste boldly of celery. These non-GMO lovage seeds grow into impressive plants that can reach 5–6 feet, topped with lacy yellow-green flower umbels. A single plant supplies celery-like flavor for years, making it a prized old-fashioned kitchen herb.Who it's forIdeal for soup and stock lovers, gardeners wanting a dramatic architectural perennial, and anyone who likes a long-lived, low-fuss herb.How & when to plantSow indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or direct-sow in spring or fall; fresh seed germinates best. Sow 1/4 inch deep and space plants 24–36 inches apart, as they grow large, in full sun to part shade. Hardy in USDA zones 3–8, lovage prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil and returns bigger each year.HarvestLeaves can be snipped in about 80–90 days once plants are established, and harvested from spring through fall. Cut outer stems and leaves as needed; the seeds and hollow stems are also edible and can be gathered later in the season.Benefits & usesLovage's intense celery flavor enriches soups, stocks, stews, potato salads, and savory dishes, and the hollow stems can be used as edible straws or candied. In the garden its towering form and flower umbels attract beneficial insects and pollinators.