Sweet Cicely - Traditional Digestive & Cottage Garden Herb
Sweet Cicely (Myrrhis odorata)
Usually available: spring & summer
Life cycle: hardy perennial
Height: 60–120cm
Bloom colour: delicate white
Position: full sun / part shade
Spacing: 45–60cm apart
Soil preference: moist, well-drained, fertile soil
You will receive 1 Sweet Cicely plug plant, organically grown and ready to establish in your garden.
All of our herb plants are grown organically using certified organic potting mixes and fertilisers.
A Traditional Cottage Garden Herb with Fragrant Foliage
Myrrhis odorata, commonly known as Sweet Cicely, is a graceful hardy perennial long treasured in traditional European and British herb gardens. With its soft fern-like foliage and delicate white umbrella-shaped flowers, it brings both beauty and heritage character to cottage garden borders and herb beds.
Organically grown and carefully nurtured, Sweet Cicely is valued by gardeners for its naturally sweet, anise-like fragrance and its elegant, airy presence in the garden. The plant emerges early in spring and provides lush green growth throughout the growing season.
Well suited to UK conditions, it thrives in both sunny and partially shaded locations, making it a versatile addition to herb gardens, woodland edges, and wildlife-friendly planting schemes.
Why Grow Sweet Cicely?
Hardy perennial herb suited to UK gardens
Soft, fern-like aromatic foliage
Elegant white flower umbels in spring and early summer
Ideal for cottage gardens and herb borders
Pollinator-friendly flowers
Easy to grow and low maintenance once established
Its graceful foliage pairs beautifully with other traditional herbs and shade-tolerant perennials.
Traditional Garden Heritage
Sweet Cicely has long been cultivated in monastery and cottage gardens across Europe. Gardeners have historically appreciated the plant for its pleasant fragrance and ornamental qualities, and it remains a favourite in heritage herb gardens today.
Growing Sweet Cicely in the UK
Sweet Cicely performs best in:
Full sun or partial shade
Moist, fertile, well-drained soil
Herb gardens, borders, or woodland-style planting
Sheltered positions in hotter areas
It is fully hardy throughout the UK and may gently self-seed in favourable conditions, helping to create a natural and relaxed garden aesthetic.
Spacing plants 45–60cm apart allows room for healthy clump formation.
Physical Characteristics
Height: 60–120cm
Spread: 45–75cm
Foliage: soft, fern-like green leaves with an aromatic scent
Flowers: delicate white umbels in late spring
Growth habit: upright, clump-forming perennial
Important Note
Plants are supplied for gardening, ornamental, and educational purposes. References to traditional uses are provided for historical and cultural interest only and do not constitute medical advice.
A Graceful Herb Rooted in Garden Tradition
Sweet Cicely adds fragrance, elegance, and heritage character to the garden. Its delicate foliage, early seasonal growth, and pollinator-friendly flowers make it a valuable addition to cottage gardens and traditional herb collections.
Grow organically. Grow traditionally. Grow with The Healing Herb Garden.
FAQ
What if my seeds don't germinate successfully?
We offer a germination promise. If your seeds fail to sprout, please let us know, and we'll send you replacements.
Are these seed kits suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Our kits come with easy-to-follow instructions and are designed to be beginner-friendly.
Are the seeds in the kits non-GMO and organic?
Yes, all our seed kits contain non-GMO, organic seeds to ensure the highest quality and safety.
Can I customize the seed kits with seeds of my choice?
Unfortunately, we do not offer customization options at this time. Our kits are expertly curated to provide a well-rounded experience.
Do you provide guidance on harvesting and using the herbs?
Yes, our kits include instructions on harvesting and basic usage, but for more in-depth information, we recommend additional resources or consulting with an herbalist.