Family: Fabaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice or licorice root, is a perennial herb native to parts of southern Europe and western Asia. It grows 3–5 feet tall with pinnate leaves, small pale purple to blue flowers, and extensive underground root systems. The roots are the most valued part of the plant, containing a naturally sweet compound (glycyrrhizin) that has been used for centuries in herbal medicine and as a flavoring in candies, teas, and traditional remedies. Licorice root is widely cultivated for its use in food products, natural sweeteners, and herbal preparations.

Risks & Threats
Although Glycyrrhiza glabra is not currently known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it does possess traits that are cause for concern. This species spreads through vigorous underground rhizomes, allowing it to form dense colonies that can outcompete other vegetation. In suitable climates, it may persist and expand in disturbed areas, potentially displacing native or desirable plant species. If introduced and left unmanaged, licorice could alter plant community structure and reduce biodiversity. Given these characteristics, its introduction to tropical island ecosystems like Hawaiʻi could pose ecological risks, and caution is advised when considering its cultivation.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability
  
• Certain varieties can grow in tropical climates
  
• Widely naturalized
  
• Regarded as an agricultural weed in a number of locations
  
• Related species have also become invasive
  
• Excessive liquorice consumption can lead to cardiac dysfunction and severe hypertension
  
• N- fixing (beneficial, but may also alter soil chemistry and facilitate other invasive weeds)
  
• Reproduces by seeds and vegetatively by rhizomes
  
• Hybridizes with other Glycyrrhiza species
  
• Seeds and rhizome fragments intentionally dispersed, and potentially accidentally dispersed as a soil contaminant
  
• Seeds may form a persistent seed bank
  
• Able to resprout from rhizomes and root fragments

Low Risk Traits:

• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Provides fodder for livestock
  
• Important commercial uses
  
• Reported to be self-incompatible
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control