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Myrrhis odorata - Cicely
Cicely /ˈsɪsəli/ or sweet cicely (Myrrhis odorata)[2] is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the celery family Apiaceae. It is one of two accepted species in the genus Myrrhis.[1][2]
Description
Myrrhis odorata is a tall herbaceous perennial plant growing to 2 m [6 ft 6 in] tall, depending on circumstances. The leaves are fern-like, 2-4-pinnate, finely divided, feathery, up to 50 cm long, with whitish patches near the rachis. The plant is softly hairy and smells strongly of aniseed when crushed. The flowers are creamy-white, about 2–4 mm across, produced in large umbels. The flowering period extends from May to June.[3] The fruits are slender, 15–25 mm long and 3–4 mm broad.
Uses
- In fertile soils it grows readily from seed, and may be increased by division in spring or autumn.[4]
- 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. Additionally, it has a history of use as a medicinal herb.[5]
- Like its relatives anise, fennel, and caraway, it can also be used to flavour akvavit.[6]
- Useful in coughs and flatulence, and as a gentle stimulant for debilitated stomachs.[5]
