Sweet Cicely (Osmorhiza claytonii) | Prairie Restorations

Sweet Cicely

Osmorhiza claytonii

Sweet Cicely is a native woodland perennial that reaches 1-3 feet in height. It is commonly found in rich, moist forests and along shaded trails. The leaves are compound and have a pleasant anise-like fragrance when crushed. Small white flowers bloom in late spring, followed by elongated seed pods. Historically, the root has been used in herbal medicine. It is an excellent choice for woodland gardens and naturalized plantings where it can spread gently.

Characteristics

Product Form	Plant, Seed
Type	Forb
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Soil	Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Peat
Moisture	Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	25
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	24
Bloom month(s)	May, June
Bloom Color or Type	White
Dominance	Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.