Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Apiaceae

Genus:

Levisticum

Species:

Levisticum officinale

USDA Symbol:

LEOF

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

250 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

jun,jul,aug

Bloom Colors:

yellow

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

bees, butterflies

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fragrant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

native to mountainous regions with fertile soils

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 14–30 days

Germination Time:

14–28 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 2-4 weeks to break dormancy; sow in fall or early spring.