Ligusticum jeholense Seeds | Jehol Lovage
LATIN NAME: Ligusticum jeholense
COMMON NAME: Jehol Lovage
Plant Profile
Jehol Lovage (Ligusticum jeholense) grows as a handsome, upright, branching, perennial in the carrot family, native to moist meadows of the northern China, while it is prized for its long history of traditional use. In carrot family it is feathery, white-flowered lovage of the northern meadows, a plant of the old practice that also fills the meadow with nectar heads. In good conditions it grows to around One metre. Few species give back so generously for so little effort.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the carrot family, Ligusticum jeholense is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. The Jehol lovage roots and parts are a familiar subject in traditional plant chemistry of the northern China, and constituents have been examined by researchers across the world. It is the kind of species that plant scientists reach for when they need reliable material for propagation and selection studies.
Uses & Benefits
In the garden, Jehol Lovage earns its place in borders, containers and mixed plantings, and it also rewards growers who raise plants for cutting, drying or kitchen use. In meadow garden, the Jehol lovage is a tall, feathery plant of sunny border. Its flat-topped heads of white flowers feed bees and hoverflies through summer, and much-divided leaves give border a light, airy presence. Traditional use of region keeps plant in old practice, and it grows well in moist, well-drained ground of open, sunny spot. Once settled, it thrives on neglect more than on fussing.
Ligusticum roots, including Chuan Xiong and Gao Ben, are major Chinese herbs for moving blood and relieving headache; their phthalides, especially ligustilide, are intensively studied for vascular and neurological effects.
Growing from Seed
Jehol Lovage is one of those generous plants that come along well from seed. Sow the seed evenly over the surface and cover lightly, using a loose, well-drained seed compost, and keep it just moist in bright light until the seedlings are well up. Transplant the sturdiest seedlings to their permanent spots and let them develop without disturbance.
Our Take
Jehol Lovage earns its space through character rather than fuss. Start with fresh seed, keep it evenly moist, and the plant does the rest itself.
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