Osmorhiza longistylis - Long-styled Sweet-cecily

Sizes available: HPP #1, two plants per pot

Basics: zones 5-8, 2-3' x 2-3', dappled, part sun to part shade, delicate white blooms in loose umbels atop broad, fern-like, fresh green leaves in late spring, prefers moist, fertile soil

Common names: Long-styled Sweet-cecily, Aniseroot, Sweet Chervil

Family: Apiaceae

Origin/Distribution: Central and eastern North America from Nova Scotia and Ontario south to Colorado, Kansas, Tennessee, and Alabama, native to Maine

Habitat: rich, moist woodlands

More: Excellent native addition to a shady border. Although a perennial this plant has a nice shrubby presence. The leaves flowers, and roots are edible. Has been used medicinally, however, it is possible to confuse this plant with Conium maculatum, Poison Hemlock, which can cause severe dermatitis on contact, and is deadly poisonous if ingested, so proceed with caution. Poison Hemlock is an invasive plant in Maine.

Nursery: grown from seed at Honey Petal Plants, seed from Prairie Moon Nursery

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons