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Clayton's sweetroot facts for kids

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Clayton's sweetroot
Osmoriza claytonii.jpg
Conservation status

Secure (NatureServe)
Scientific classification
Genus:
Osmorhiza
Species:
claytonii
Synonyms
  • Myrrhis claytonii Michx.
  • Myrrhis claytonii Michx.
  • Osmorhiza amurensis F. Schmidt ex Maxim.
  • Osmorhiza claytonii (Michx.) C.B. Clarke
  • Osmorhiza aristata var. montana Makino
  • Osmorhiza japonica Siebold & Zucc.
  • Scandix aristata (Thunb.) Makino
  • Scandix claytonii (Michx.) Koso-Pol.
  • Uraspermum aristatum (Thunb.) Kuntze
  • Washingtonia claytonii (Michx.) Britton

Osmorhiza claytonii is a plant found in North America. It is a type of perennial herb. This means it lives for more than two years. You can find it growing naturally in Canada and the eastern United States. People often call it Clayton's sweetroot or sweet cicely. This name is also used for other plants in its group, called Osmorhiza.

What is Sweet Cicely?

This plant, Osmorhiza claytonii, is a special herb. It grows year after year. It is part of a family of plants known for their unique scents.

Where Does Sweet Cicely Grow?

Sweet cicely is native to North America. It loves to grow in the eastern parts of Canada and the United States. You might find it in forests or shady areas.

What Does Sweet Cicely Look Like?

The leaves of this plant are a pretty yellowish-green color. Its stems have soft white hairs. You might also see some hairs on the leaves. The plant often branches out into groups of three leaves. If you break a piece of the plant, it smells or tastes a bit like anise. Anise is a spice often used in licorice candy.

How Does Sweet Cicely Spread Its Seeds?

The seeds of sweet cicely are quite clever! They have tiny barbs, like hooks, on their ends. These barbs help the seeds stick to things. They can stick to your clothing, animal fur, or even bird feathers. This is how the plant spreads its seeds to new places.

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