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Description
Osmorhiza is a genus of flowering plants in the family Apiaceae, commonly known as sweet cicely or sweetroot. The plants are native to North America and Eurasia, and grow in a variety of habitats, from forests to meadows to stream banks. The genus name comes from the Greek words “osme”, meaning smell, and “rhiza”, meaning root, referring to the sweet scent of the roots.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Osmorhiza |
Appearance
Osmorhiza plants typically grow to be around 60-90cm tall, with finely divided leaves and small, white or yellowish flowers that bloom in the spring and early summer. The plants have a sweet, anise-like scent, and the roots are often used in cooking as a substitute for anise or licorice.
Care Guide
Osmorhiza plants are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. They prefer well-drained soil and partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun and dry conditions. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Osmorhiza plants are hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Osmorhiza plants are generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, they can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plants well-watered and fertilized, and prune away any damaged or diseased branches. If necessary, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Habitat
Osmorhiza plants are found in a variety of habitats, from forests to meadows to stream banks. They are native to North America and Eurasia, and can be found throughout much of the northern hemisphere. In the wild, they often grow in large colonies and can form a dense understory in forested areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Osmorhiza plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Osmorhiza plants can be grown in containers, but they may not grow as large as they would in the ground.
Q: Are Osmorhiza plants poisonous?
A: No, Osmorhiza plants are not poisonous and are safe to handle and consume.
Q: Can Osmorhiza plants be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Osmorhiza plants can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Q: How long do Osmorhiza plants live?
A: Osmorhiza plants are perennial and can live for several years under the right conditions.
Related Plants
- Osmorhiza berteroi – Chilean sweet cicely
- Osmorhiza chilensis – Chilean sweet cicely
- Osmorhiza claytonii – Clayton’s sweetroot
- Osmorhiza depauperata – blunt-seeded sweetroot
References
- USDA Plants Database: Osmorhiza
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Osmorhiza
- Wildflower Center: Osmorhiza
