Myrrhis odorata; The sweet cicely is foremost a weed within the Icelandic flora. It grows mainly in urban areas and around farm houses. Walking through Reykjavik you can see this plant in private gardens and along hedges. The plant is commonly used as a component of herbal teas and similar products. It has a strong anise flavour, especially the dark long-shaped seeds. A hint for anyone who wants to propagate this plant from seed: the seed only germinates after a a cold period. So you can either sow it before winter or store the seed in a fridge for some time.
It is a member of the Carrot family (Apiaceae formerly known as Umbelliferae). The Icelandic name of this species is Spánarkerfill.
FLORA OF ICELAND elements: Myrrhis odorata, Sweet Cicely, Spánarkerfill
A brief introduction to Iceland plants
Text & Photographs by Dick Vuijk
- unless stated otherwise
Text & Photographs by Dick Vuijk
- unless stated otherwise
Other members of the Carrot/Parsley and Ivy families
Other members of the Carrot/Parsley and Ivy families