Western Sweet-Cicely (Osmorhiza occidentalis)

Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Osmorhiza occidentalis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet liquorice or anise flavour and can be dried, ground into a powder and used as a flavouring for biscuits etc. — The root has a sweet liquorice or anise flavour and can be dried, ground into a powder and used as a flavouring for biscuits etc.; The taste is probably too strong for the whole root to be used as a vegetable.; The dried seeds are used as a flavouring.; The unripe seed, when still fleshy, can be nibbled raw.

Habitat & North American Range

Shady or partly shady areas, often on slopes and in valleys. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)