Levisticum officinale

Common name(s): lovage

Description: perennial; an herb often used as an easy-to-grow substitute for celery. Leaves, seeds, roots, and stalks have a concentrated celery flavor and can be dried for later use or used fresh. The hollow stalks are also popularly used as straws for bloody marys and similar beverages. Small green-yellow flower umbels in spring.

Height: to 6 ft. Spread: to 3 ft.

Position: full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil

Uses: culinary- soups, stews, stuffings, salads, casseroles, etc.

Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below

Distribution: Afghanistan, S. Iran