Sweet Cicely (Myrrhis odorata) - How to Grow & Care Guide

Plant Snapshot

Common Name: Sweet Cicely
Latin Name: Myrrhis odorata
Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 4–8.
Typical Height: 24–36 in (60–90 cm).
Typical Spread: 18–24 in (45–60 cm).
Bloom Period: Late spring to early summer (May–June in northern hemisphere temperate climates).
Soil Preferences: Moist fertile, well drained soil. Tolerates heavier soils if not waterlogged. Poor drought tolerance.
Light Preferences: Partial shade to full sun. Best in partial shade in hot climates to avoid leaf scorch.
Toxicity: Leaves and seeds are used as an edible flavoring. Handle with caution because the Apiaceae family includes toxic lookalikes. Check pet safety with local poison control.
Propagation: By seed sown outdoors or under cover and by division of clumps in spring.

Key Facts

Perennial herb in the carrot family Apiaceae.
Aromatic ferny leaves with a sweet anise like flavor.
Leaves and seeds have been used as a culinary flavoring.
Native to temperate Europe and used in shade and woodland gardens.
Typically flowers in late spring to early summer.
Prefers moist fertile soil and some protection from hot afternoon sun.
Propagated by seed or division of established clumps.

Sweet Cicely is a fragrant perennial herb in the carrot family grown for ferny aromatic leaves and small umbels of late spring flowers. It is valued in shady borders and woodland gardens and used historically as an anise flavored culinary herb, though care is needed because of toxic lookalikes in the same family.

Identification and appearance

Sweet Cicely grows in clumps reaching about 24 to 36 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide. Leaves are ferny and aromatic with a sweet anise like scent. Late spring to early summer produces small umbels of flowers that are unobtrusive but attract pollinators. Size and leaf persistence vary with climate and site fertility.

Where to grow and best uses

Grow Sweet Cicely in shaded borders, woodland edges, or under deciduous trees where soil stays cool and moist. It works well as a low specialist groundcover or as an underplanting for shrubs. In cooler climates it tolerates fuller sun, while in hot areas it benefits from protection from hot afternoon sun to avoid leaf scorch.

Planting time and spacing

Sow seed outdoors in autumn or in spring under cover, or plant divisions in spring when growth resumes. Space plants roughly 18 to 24 inches apart to match their mature spread and allow air movement. Follow local extension guidance for exact sowing dates because success varies with regional climate and soil temperature.

Soil and light

Sweet Cicely prefers moist fertile well drained soil and will thrive in humus rich situations. It tolerates heavier soils if not waterlogged but does poorly in prolonged drought. Light range is partial shade to full sun, though plants need some protection from hot afternoon sun in warm climates to maintain healthy foliage.

Watering and maintenance

Keep soil evenly moist during establishment and provide regular moisture in dry spells to prevent wilting and reduced growth. Mulch with organic material to retain moisture and improve fertility. Divide congested clumps in spring to renew vigor and control spread. Remove winter debris in spring to encourage fresh growth.

Propagation and dividing

Propagate by seed sown outdoors in autumn or in spring under cover, and by division of established clumps in spring when new shoots appear. Seeds and young plants prefer a moist seedbed and moderate light for reliable establishment. Division is the fastest way to increase stock and to rejuvenate older plants.

Controlling spread and after flowering care

Plants form clumps and can self seed where conditions suit them, so remove spent flower heads to limit volunteers. Divide every few years to keep clumps compact and to prevent overcrowding. In colder zones expect winter dieback to the ground with spring regrowth, while in warmer zones plants may remain evergreen and spread more vigorously.

Edibility and safety

Leaves and seeds have historical use as an anise flavored culinary herb. Handle with caution because Sweet Cicely belongs to the Apiaceae and can be mistaken for toxic relatives. Confirm safety for household pets with local poison control before offering any plant material to animals, and check medical guidance for human consumption if pregnant or on medications.

Frequently asked questions

How fast does Sweet Cicely grow?: It forms a clump reaching about 24 to 36 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide once established, growth rate varies with soil fertility light and moisture.
When does Sweet Cicely bloom?: Blooming is typically in late spring to early summer, generally May to June in northern temperate climates, with timing shifting by region.
Is Sweet Cicely edible?: Yes leaves and seeds are used as a flavoring. Confirm identification and check safety for pets and people before using.
Can I grow it in full sun?: It tolerates full sun in cooler climates but prefers partial shade and some protection from hot afternoon sun in warm areas.
How do I propagate Sweet Cicely?: Propagate by seed sown in autumn or spring and by dividing established clumps in spring when new growth begins.