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Scottish lovage

Name: Scottish lovage
Brand: Akène
SKU: AKE-SEMGR2
Price: 5.99 CAD
Availability: InStock

Common name Scotch Lovage

Latin name Ligusticum scoticum

Quantity per packet Minimum 50 seeds

This native herb supports biodiversity through its nectar-rich flowers while providing an excellent edible harvest for ecological and edible gardens.

Product information

Product
identification

Common nameScotch Lovage

Latin nameLigusticum scoticum

FamilyApiaceae

TypePerennial herb

CyclePerennial

Quantity per packMinimum 50 seeds

Code produitAKENE-0029

Product
description

Scotch Lovage (Ligusticum scoticum) is a hardy native perennial herb valued for both its culinary qualities and its ecological importance. Its aromatic, dark green foliage has a distinctive celery-like flavor with subtle coastal notes, making it an excellent addition to edible landscapes, naturalistic gardens, and coastal plantings. In late summer, clusters of small greenish-white flowers attract a wide variety of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinating insects. Exceptionally hardy and well adapted to northern climates, Scotch Lovage is an outstanding perennial herb for Canadian gardens seeking a unique, long-lived edible plant.

Easy to grow, Scotch Lovage thrives in full sun and well-drained soil while showing excellent tolerance to salty conditions and exposed coastal environments. This resilience makes it especially well suited to gardens near shorelines, rivers, or windy sites exposed to salt spray. Once established, it requires very little maintenance and only moderate watering during extended dry periods. Its compact growth habit, exceptional hardiness, and ability to tolerate challenging conditions make it an excellent choice for edible borders, pollinator gardens, and naturalistic landscapes.

The aromatic leaves of Scotch Lovage can be harvested from June through September and used fresh or dried to flavor soups, fish dishes, sauces, and many traditional recipes. Beyond its culinary value, this native herb has a long history of traditional medicinal use in northern regions and contributes significantly to biodiversity through its nectar-rich flowers. Combined with Sea Wormwood, American Dune Wildrye, Yarrow, or Wild Bergamot, Ligusticum scoticum creates attractive coastal-inspired plantings. Its unique combination of hardiness, flavor, ornamental appeal, and ecological value makes it a valuable addition to sustainable gardens throughout Canada.

Sowing
guide

Sowing periodSpring or after optional cold stratification

Best time

Spring

Sowing depth6 mm (0.25 in)

Spacing / density

30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)

Germination temperature15 to 20 °C (59 to 68 °F)

Germination time14 to 30 days

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by dividing mature clumps. Division quickly produces vigorous new plants.

Growing
method

Sow Scotch Lovage seeds in spring or after optional cold stratification to improve germination. Plant the seeds about 6 mm (0.25 in) deep in a light growing medium kept slightly moist. Temperatures between 15 and 20°C (59 to 68°F) generally produce germination within 14 to 30 days. Young plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, even in relatively poor conditions. This species tolerates salt spray and harsh coastal environments exceptionally well. Once established, it forms a hardy perennial perfectly suited to sustainable gardens throughout Canada.

Soil
and care

ExposureFull sun

Soil

Well-drained soil that tolerates saline conditions. This species thrives in light soils and performs exceptionally well in coastal environments.

Soil pHAcidic to neutral

Watering

Moderate watering is recommended to keep the soil slightly cool without becoming waterlogged. Once established, Scotch Lovage tolerates relatively dry conditions well.

Fertilization

A light annual application of compost in spring is generally sufficient. Excess nitrogen is unnecessary and may reduce the concentration of aromatic compounds in the foliage.

Care levelLow

In spring, remove winter-damaged foliage and apply a light layer of compost around the plant. During summer, maintain moderate soil moisture without overwatering to prevent root problems. Flowering stems may be left in place to attract pollinators or removed after seed production. In autumn, leave part of the foliage to naturally protect the crown. Once established, this hardy herb requires very little maintenance.

Container
growing

Recommended pot size

20 to 30 L (5 to 8 gal)

Scotch Lovage grows well in deep containers of at least 20 to 30 L (5 to 8 gal), allowing room for its deep taproot and aromatic foliage. Use a well-drained growing medium enriched with compost while avoiding prolonged waterlogging. Place the container in full sun to mimic its natural coastal habitat. Container growing makes harvesting the flavorful leaves convenient while providing an attractive ornamental herb for patios and balconies.

Bloom,
harvest
and garden

Its aromatic edible foliage combined with exceptional tolerance to coastal conditions makes Scotch Lovage a unique perennial herb for northern gardens. It also attracts numerous pollinators while providing outstanding culinary value.

This native herb supports biodiversity through its nectar-rich flowers while providing an excellent edible harvest for ecological and edible gardens.

Garden use

Scotch Lovage is ideal for coastal gardens, naturalistic landscapes, and edible gardens throughout Canada. Its aromatic foliage adds culinary value, while its flowers attract a wide range of pollinators. It pairs beautifully with drought-tolerant prairie species and other salt-tolerant plants. Its exceptional hardiness and coastal adaptability make it especially valuable in shoreline and riverside gardens.

Bloom period

Clusters of small greenish-white flowers bloom in late summer, attracting a wide diversity of pollinating insects while adding light texture to the garden.

Flower colorGreenish white

Foliage colorDark green

Harvest

Harvest leaves from June through September as needed. Seeds may also be collected once fully mature in late summer.

Fruiting

Seeds develop within the umbels after flowering and may be harvested or left for natural reseeding.

Wildlife appealBees and pollinators

Size
and facts

Height30 to 60 cm (12 to 24 in)

Spread30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)

Growth rateModerate

Hardiness zoneUSDA Zones 3–8

Minimum temperature-40°C (-40°F)

Foliage typeDeciduous

Papillonstrue

Insectes utilestrue

Résistant aux cerfstrue

Pet friendlytrue

Planting
partners

Good companions

Sea Wormwood, American Dune Wildrye, Wild Bergamot, Common Yarrow

Avoid planting with

Northern Blue Flag Iris, Marsh Marigold, Ligularia, Horsetail

Recipe
and inspiration

The aromatic leaves of Scotch Lovage are edible and traditionally used to season soups, fish, sauces, broths, and many classic coastal recipes. Their flavor resembles celery with fresh, slightly maritime notes that reflect the plant's natural habitat. Young shoots can be used fresh in small quantities, while mature leaves dry well for year-round use. Scotch Lovage also has a long history of traditional medicinal use in northern regions and is now appreciated as a hardy edible herb for ecological gardens and coastal landscapes.

Frequently asked questions

When should I sow Scotch Lovage seeds? +

Scotch Lovage seeds are generally sown in spring or after a short period of cold stratification. This treatment often improves both germination speed and uniformity.

Are Scotch Lovage leaves edible? +

Yes. The aromatic leaves are widely used as a seasoning. Their flavor resembles celery with more complex coastal and herbal notes.

Why is Scotch Lovage well suited to coastal gardens? +

Scotch Lovage naturally tolerates salt spray and strong coastal winds, making it an excellent choice for gardens near shorelines, rivers, and exposed coastal sites.

Does Scotch Lovage attract pollinators? +

Yes. Its flower umbels attract a wide variety of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it an excellent pollinator plant.

Is Scotch Lovage easy to grow? +

Yes. Once established, Scotch Lovage requires very little maintenance. Its exceptional hardiness and tolerance of difficult growing conditions make it an excellent choice for beginning gardeners.

The availability of our seeds varies depending on seasonal availability, production schedules and supplier inventory. Certain varieties may only be offered for a limited time based on their natural growth cycle, sowing period or available stock. These product pages are designed to help and inspire gardeners in choosing the right seeds for vegetable gardens, flower beds, pollinator gardens, container growing, naturalization projects and sustainable outdoor spaces.