In some respects it resembles celery but is much larger, growing more than 6 feet tall. One of its principal uses is as a salt substitute in dishes. Its size makes it a good structural plant for the back of flower beds and against walls.

Lovage can be used in almost any dish celery or parsley would be used . However it has a much stronger taste than Celery so should be used sparingly.

Lovage can just be added to many dishes. It is good in green salads, potato dishes, soups and stews to give a dish an additional taste boost.

Lovage also has the added health benefit of being high in vitamin C. Like many herbs, Lovage has a wide range of medicinal properties. It can aid in digestive difficulties and  water retention. It can act as a deodoriser and its root has antiseptic properties which can help certain skin problems when added as a decoction to bath water.

A teaspoon of Lovage seeds, steeped in Brandy, strained and sweetened with sugar is on old remedy for settling an upset stomach.