Myrrhis odorata
Family: Apiaceae

This herbaceous perennial from Europe has been grown for centuries for culinary use. It grows 1 m (3 ft) high, with a fleshy taproot, thin, branching stems, and soft, lacy leaves. The small, white flowers are borne in terminal clusters and the ridged seeds are dark brown. The leaves, seeds and roots add a licorice flavor to salads, and the roots can also be cooked as a vegetable.

Cultivation

Sweet cicely is best grown in a position which has light, dappled shade cast by trees. It will grow in any well-drained, yet moist soil. Propagate from seed that is sown in clumps and spaced about 60 cm (24 in) apart, in autumn or in early spring. When the seedlings appear, thin to one seedling from each clump. Alternatively, the roots can be divided either in autumn or late winter.

Climate

Zone 5.