What is lemon licorice?

Lemon Licorice, also known as Helichrysum petiolare ‘Limelight’, is a stunning annual plant that adds a vibrant touch to any garden or container. It is particularly popular for hanging baskets or container planters due to its cascading growth habit and beautiful yellow-green foliage.

One of the notable characteristics of Lemon Licorice is its upright structure, with velvety leaves that have a lemony scent when crushed. The leaves are a unique yellow-green color, which adds a refreshing and eye-catching element to any landscape. The texture of the leaves is also quite interesting, as they have a soft and fuzzy feel to them.

What makes Lemon Licorice truly stand out is its ability to cascade over the edges of pots, creating an elegant and lush display. When planted toward the edges of containers, this plant tends to grow wider than it does tall, creating a beautiful trailing effect. This makes it a fantastic choice for adding a touch of greenery and texture to hanging baskets or elevated planters.

In terms of care, Lemon Licorice is a sun-loving plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It is relatively low-maintenance and does well in well-draining soil. Regular watering is important to keep the plant hydrated, especially during hot summer months. However, it is important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

One of the great things about Lemon Licorice is that it does not require flowers to make a statement. The foliage itself is so visually striking that it can easily serve as the focal point of any arrangement or garden bed. This makes it a versatile plant that can be used in various design styles, whether you prefer a more minimalist or vibrant look.

I personally love using Lemon Licorice in my own garden and have found it to be a fantastic addition to my hanging baskets. Its cascading growth habit creates a beautiful draping effect, and the bright yellow-green leaves add a pop of color to my outdoor space. I find that Lemon Licorice pairs well with other plants that have contrasting foliage or flowers, as it adds a unique texture and visual interest.

Lemon Licorice is a sun-loving annual plant with velvety yellow-green leaves. Its cascading growth habit makes it perfect for hanging baskets or container planters. The foliage is the star of the show, making this plant a standout even without flowers. With proper care and regular watering, Lemon Licorice can add a vibrant and refreshing touch to any garden or outdoor space.

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Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.