Cicely or Sweet Cicely (Myrrhis odorata) is the sole species of genus Myrrhis in the family Apiaceae. It is a tall herbaceous perennial plant, growing to 2 m with feathery leaves that are finely divided, up to 50 cm long. It bears white flowers in large umbels, each flower 2-4 mm across. The slender leaves are 15-25 mm long and 3-5 mm broad.
The leaves have a strong taste reminiscent of anise, and are sometimes used as a herb, mainly in Germany and Scandinavia. The leaves can also be used to flavor akvavit (a flavored spirit that is produced in Scandinavia). The leaves also contains aromatic oil called anethole, a flavoring substance of commercial value, with a distinct sweetness.
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