Rare Plant Blossoms in Odesa: Sweet Root at Kuyalnik National Park
In the Kuyalnik National Nature Park located in Odesa region, a rare plant known as sweet root (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) has bloomed. This was reported on the park's official Facebook page.
Key highlights:
- The sweet root that blossomed in Kuyalnik National Park is included in the Red Book of Ukraine;
- This plant grows on the slopes and shores of the Kuyalnik estuary, and its population holds significant conservation value;
- Sweet root, also known as licorice, is valued for its medicinal properties and unique taste.
Sweet root is listed in the Red Book of Ukraine with a status of «under-researched» – meaning there is insufficient data for a precise evaluation, but the plant requires protection. Additionally, plant communities dominated by sweet root are included in the Green Book of Ukraine, which focuses on preserving valuable natural ecosystems.
Within the park, sweet root grows on the slopes and banks of the Kuyalnik estuary. Its flowers actively attract insects, particularly butterflies. This plant is rarely found in the wild – predominantly in the steppes of southern Ukraine and coastal regions of the Black and Azov Seas.
Experts emphasize that many natural areas where sweet root used to grow have been affected by military actions. Therefore, the population in Kuyalnik National Park is vital for biodiversity conservation.
Sweet root (licorice) is known for its medicinal properties and sweet flavor. Glycyrrhizin, a compound extracted from its root, is 50 times sweeter than sugar and is widely used in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
