Lovage

Levisticum officinale

herb

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

A tall perennial herb with celery-like foliage and small yellow flowers, reaching 3–6 feet in height. All parts—leaves, stems, seeds, and roots—are edible and have a strong celery-like flavor used in soups, stocks, and seasonings. Lovage is a hardy, long-lived plant that returns reliably each spring and requires minimal maintenance once established.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Lovage is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

hourglass_bottom

Slow Growthchevron_right

water_drop

Underwateringchevron_right

warning

Yellow Leaveschevron_right

Care Guide

light_mode

Light

Full sun to partial shade; prefers 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily.

water_drop

Water

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water deeply once or twice weekly depending on rainfall and temperature.

compost

Soil

Well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter; tolerates a wide pH range (6.0–7.5).

science

Fertiliser

Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring; established plants rarely need additional feeding if grown in rich soil.

thermometer

Temperature

Hardy perennial; tolerates freezing winters and prefers cooler temperatures (60–70°F growing season).

humidity_percentage

Humidity

Moderate humidity; drought-tolerant once established but prefers consistent moisture.

Toxicity

check_circleSafe for Catscheck_circleSafe for DogsdangerousToxic to Children

Not toxic to pets, but may cause photosensitivity in some individuals due to furanocoumarins in the leaves and stems.

Common Diseases

filter_dramaRoot Rotchevron_right grainLeaf Spotchevron_right

Common Pests

blur_onAphidschevron_right coronavirusCarrot Flychevron_right

Seasonal Care

local_floristspring

Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

light_modesummer

Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

ecoautumn

Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

ac_unitwinter

Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which parts of Lovage can I actually eat?

All parts — leaves, stems, seeds, and roots — are edible and carry a strong celery-like flavor used in soups, stocks, and seasonings.

How much maintenance does established Lovage need?

Very little — it's a hardy, long-lived perennial that returns reliably each spring once established, needing only consistent moisture and occasional deep watering.