Sweet Cisely

Sweet Cisely Overview

Myrrhis odorata is a herbaceous perennial plant from the Apiaceae family. It has an upright habit and is softly hairy, the foliage has a strong aniseed scent when crushed. It is commonly known by the names Sweet Cisely, Sweet Cicely and Anise, amongst many others. The pinnately divided leaves can be used to add flavour to fresh salads, for cooking and this plant also has medicinal value. The fern-like plant softens beds in the garden. It produces white flowers arranged on umbels, leading onto spindle-shaped fruits.

How to harvest Sweet Cisely

Harvest the leaves from early spring to mid summer while active growing and remove flowering stems to enhance leaf flavor.

How to propagate Sweet Cisely

Seed

Sow seeds directly in autumn.

Division

Divide plants in spring or autumn.

Special features of Sweet Cisely

Attracts useful insects

Attracts bees and butterflies.

Other uses of Sweet Cisely

Culinary, fragrance, border, foliage

Medicinal

The fruit, roots and leaves can be used as a tonic, purifier and mild disinfectant.

Edible

Its leaves are sometimes used as a herb, either raw or cooked, with a rather strong taste reminiscent of anise. The roots and seeds also are edible.