The Herbarium
I. The Ingredient
II. Origins & History
Lovage bridges the herb garden and the vegetable patch: one tall perennial supplies leaves, stems and aromatic seeds. Nineteenth-century herbals depicted the same species that gardeners cultivate today. The RHS records leaves as the principal kitchen harvest, with stems used in a celery-like manner and seeds used in baking. Such uses help explain its survival as a many-purpose garden herb. A botanical plate documents the plant, rather than proving the age of a particular dish; the pairings below are modern suggestions.
III. The Flavour
An emphatic celery-like taste with green parsley notes, a little sweetness and a hint of anise. Young leaves are more agreeable than older foliage, which becomes bitter as flowering develops. A small amount can season a whole dish.
- Aroma
- Celery, parsley and a hint of anise
- Texture
- Tender young leaves; fibrous older stems
- Intensity
- Assertive; use sparingly
IV. Culinary Affinities
Contemporary flavour suggestions, distinguished from documented historical combinations.
Potatoes & roots: Mild potatoes, carrots and roasted roots offer a sweet, earthy background.
Eggs & dairy: Eggs, butter and soft cheese soften the herb’s assertive green character.
Pulses: Lentils and white beans welcome a leafy, savoury accent.
Poultry & vegetables: Chicken, peas and vegetable broths benefit from a clear celery-like note.
V. Companions in the Mortar
Parsley lengthens its green character, chives add a gentler allium accent and black pepper brings dry warmth. Fennel can echo the anise note, but use restraint.
VI. The Alchemist’s Note
Use young lovage leaves finely chopped in potatoes, eggs, soups or salads. Their celery-like flavour is strong: start with a little and avoid older bitter foliage.
VII. Sources & Further Reading
- Kew POWO — Levisticum officinale; accepted name, Apiaceae and native range
- RHS — Lovage; botanical profile
- RHS — Growing lovage; edible parts and kitchen use
Reviewed October 2026. Historical imagery is not an identification guide.
Folio 14 · The Grimoire