Contents
Description
Myrrhis is a plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is also known as sweet cicely, myrrh, or garden myrrh. The plant is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in damp meadows, hedgerows, and woodland margins. It has a sweet aniseed-like taste and is used as a culinary herb and medicinal plant. The plant can grow up to a height of 60cm and has a lifespan of up to 5 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Myrrhis |
Appearance
Myrrhis has bright green leaves that are fern-like and deeply divided. The plant produces white or cream-colored flowers in clusters from May to June. The flowers are followed by long, slender seed pods. The roots of the plant are thick and fleshy and have a sweet aniseed-like scent.
Care Guide
Myrrhis prefers to grow in damp soil and partial shade. It can tolerate full sun but needs regular watering in dry conditions. The plant prefers a rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can be fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Myrrhis is hardy to USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Myrrhis is susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. It can also be affected by aphids and spider mites. To prevent these pests and diseases, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and is not overcrowded. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pest infestation or disease and treat it promptly with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Myrrhis is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in damp meadows, hedgerows, and woodland margins. It prefers to grow in partial shade and moist soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Myrrhis a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Myrrhis is a perennial plant that can live up to 5 years.
Q: Can Myrrhis be used as a culinary herb?
A: Yes, Myrrhis has a sweet aniseed-like taste and is used as a culinary herb.
Q: Does Myrrhis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Myrrhis produces flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How tall can Myrrhis grow?
A: Myrrhis can grow up to a height of 60cm.
Related Plants
- Anethum graveolens
- Foeniculum vulgare
- Carum carvi
- Coriandrum sativum
References
- https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/myrrhis-odorata/
- https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Myrrhis+odorata
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/24230/myrrhis-odorata/details
