Is It Possible To Cross Pollinate 2 Different Types Of Licorice?

Question

I’ve started growing Glycyrrhizin Glabra and Glycyrrhizin Echinata and am planning to cross pollinate them. Will it work? Also I’ve briefly heard on the internet, that Licorice leaves are not edible, but I can’t find any information on the internet, as to why. Would the leaves have the same or similar health benefits as the root? For example I’ve heard that Licorice root is anti-aging, would the leaves have the same effect?

Answer 1

Glycyrrhiza glabra is the cultivated licorice plant grown for its sweet roots. Echinata is a wild form so you are crossing a cultivated variety with a wild variety. You can try crossing them. If they aren't a viable match, the new plant won't grow.

Apparently, licorice leaves do not contain glycyrrhizin, the sweetener that is in the roots. If the roots are harvested for the anti-aging benefit, the leaves must not contain the desirable agent. Not all parts, i.e., roots, stems, leaves, flowers, of all plants offer the same benefits.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/licorice/growing-licorice-plants.htm

https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/cass/Pollination%20Basics%20June%202019.docx.pdf