Glycyrrhiza is derived from the Greek glykeros, 'sweet' and rhiza, 'root', as G. glabra roots are used to make liquorice. They are also ornamental, with pinnate leaves, purple-white, yellow, pea-like flowers and unusual hairy pod-like fruits.
As with most members of the pea family, the numerous flowers are much used by visiting bumblebees, large hoverflies and other insects, providing both nectar and pollen to those species powerful enough to open the flowers.