n.
Perennial herb ( Glycyrrhiza glabra ) of the pea family (see legume ) and the flavouring, confection, and medicine made from its roots.
Native to southern Europe, the plant is cultivated around the Mediterranean and in parts of the U.S. It grows to 3 ft (1 m) and bears graceful compound leaves, blue-violet flower clusters, and flat, flexible seedpods 34 in. (710 cm) long. It is 42 times sweeter than table sugar, and its flavour, similar to anise , can mask unpleasant medicinal tastes.