Lovage
Ligusticum levisticum
Description
Lovage, also known by the name of “mountain celery”, is a hardy perennial herb with a pleasant, intense scent, which is found, growing wild, in many hilly areas of northern Italy. It cannot be grown indoors, since it lives only in the open, where it forms clumps of considerable elegance.
Stem
The stems of lovage, which grow to over a metre, are round, erect, hollow; they branch towards the top and have reddish tinges.
Leaves
Lovage leaves are tripinnatisect, incised and toothed, very similar in shape to those of celery. Very fragrant, they do not lose their aroma even after being dried, and should therefore be added to dishes in moderation.
Flowers
In the height of summer, in the months of July and August, the flowers of lovage open: very small, of a colour between pale yellow and green, are grouped in umbels.
Exposure
Lovage thrives both in sun and in half shade.
Propagation
The so-called “mountain celery” self-seeds very readily; if you intend to sow it, the seeds must be sown as soon as they have ripened at the end of summer. Lovage can also be propagated by taking cuttings of shoots in spring or autumn, or by dividing the clumps.
Growth
In view of the considerable size the clumps reach as they develop, at least half a metre should be left between one plant and the next.
Harvesting
The leaves are picked in summer, between June and August; the roots in autumn, when the growing season has ended.
Storage
The leaves can be either frozen or dried. For the roots and seeds, however, only the latter method is recommended.
Properties
IN THE KITCHEN: Lovage leaves, fresh or dried, are excellent for flavouring soups and boiled meats. When tender and raw they can replace parsley in omelettes and soups, and they add a pleasant flavour to many other dishes, such as those made with chicken and with salt cod. The most tender stalks can be candied; the older ones are boiled and eaten as a side dish, or combined with other vegetables in making soups.
Health
The root of “mountain celery” is prepared by boiling it: eating it stimulates kidney activity, reduces fluid retention, and improves digestive function. It is also used in cases of menstrual insufficiency. lovage