Lovage - a herb we grown in our garden

Lovage is an ancient herb grown in English gardens and monasteries for hundreds of years, but originating in the Mediterranean. Europeans used it for treating minor stomachache, kidney problems and headaches.

I found lovage after a few failed attempts at growing celery. Lovage is far easier to grow, requires little to no care and comes back every year. It likes deep moist soil and sunshine or partial shade and grows as high as six feet tall. (Mine has gotten as high as 4 feet)

This herb looks and tastes like celery, although it has a much stronger taste it can be used in place of any recipe using celery – just use a little less.

Lovage is one of my favorite garden herbs; we use the leaves in salads and greens and the stock in soups, salads and stews or just raw. I have yet to use the root, but it is also edible – something we will have to remember to try this year.

One plant is definitely enough for a family.

Cream of Lovage Soup

Pea and Carrot Salad with Lovage