Aniseroot
Osmorhiza longistylis
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Pl. F381 — Osmorhiza longistylis
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IOverview
Overview
Aniseroot (Osmorhiza longistylis) is a perennial herb native to the eastern and central United States, as well as parts of Canada. It thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure and can be found growing in various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils. Known for its edible properties, aniseroot's leaves, shoots, and roots are all usable. This plant is hardy in zones 5-9 and reaches a height of about 1.2 meters. Its distinctive feature lies in its light to partial sun requirements and its ability to grow in diverse soil conditions, making it adaptable for cultivation in gardens or natural settings.
Quick answers
What is Aniseroot?
Aniseroot (Osmorhiza longistylis) is a perennial herb native to the eastern and central United States, as well as parts of Canada. It thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure and can be found growing in various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Aniseroot thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-9 and grows as a perennial, reaching heights of about 1.2 meters. For best results, plant Aniseroot in areas with well-draining soil and regular watering. Propagate through division or seed sowing. The edible parts include leaves, roots, and shoots, making it a versatile addition to the garden.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Aniseroot for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, light-loving spot in your garden for Aniseroot.
- 1
What you'll need
Aniseroot plants or seeds, gardening gloves, trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with light to partial shade. Ensure soil is well-draining, rich in organic matter.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep or plant young seedlings at 30-60 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist and mulch lightly to retain moisture. Watch for signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize sparingly with compost in early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead foliage in late winter to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough light, over-fertilizing.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRootShoots
Edible uses: Condiment, Tea
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Massachusetts, Alberta, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Manitoba, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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