black lovage
Noun: - A European herb (Smyrnium olusatrum): A biennial or perennial plant of the Apiaceae family, native to the Mediterranean region but widely naturalized in coastal areas of Britain and other regions. It is characterized by its dark green, glossy leaves, clusters of small yellow flowers, and a strong, aromatic scent reminiscent of celery or lovage. Historically and sometimes still cultivated as a potherb or culinary herb.
- Noun:
- Black lovage, also known as Alexanders, was a common vegetable in medieval gardens.
- The forager identified the wild plant as black lovage, noting its celery-like aroma.
- Some chefs use the young shoots of black lovage to add a pungent flavor to soups.
- Historical/Culinary Context: The term is often used in historical, botanical, or foraging contexts to refer to this specific plant, distinguishing it from common lovage () and other similar herbs.
- In historical recipes, "black lovage" often referred to what we now commonly call Alexanders.
- Alexanders: The more common name for the same plant, .
- Horse parsley: Another occasional common name for this herb.
- Lovage (): A related but distinct perennial herb with a similar flavor profile, often used in cooking. "Black lovage" is not a variety of this plant.
- Alexanders (Primary synonym)
- Smyrnium olusatrum (Botanical name)
This term refers specifically to the plant Smyrnium olusatrum. It is not typically used in modern everyday conversation but is found in botanical, historical, and specialized culinary texts. The "black" in the name may refer to the dark color of its seeds or the mature plant. It is crucial not to confuse it with the common herb simply called "lovage."
- European herb somewhat resembling celery widely naturalized in Britain coastal regions and often cultivated as a potherb