A staple in every psychic's garden in the Middle Ages, lovage also was found in the emperor Charlemagne's courtyard. In days of old, weary travelers placed a bit of lovage in their shoes to help them continue on their journeys.
Culinary uses
Lovage adds a strong celery flavor to foods. Unlike celery, it stands up well in cooking, so a little usually will do. Lovage leaves can be added to soups, salads, and stews. It also is good in potato salad and on poultry.
Cultivation
You can start a lovage plant by seed or division. Planted in a sunny spot in fertile soil, it will grow bigger and stronger each year. Seeds should be sown in late summer or early fall. Plant 2 feet apart and cut back frequently, not harvesting until the second year. Give it plenty of water; fertilize in the spring.
