Sweet Cicely

Myrrhis odorata. This herb is often found growing in hedgerows but normally north of the border. It was originally used as sweetener for drinks and puddings before sugar came to the UK. The leaves have a strong aniseed scent to them. The natural sweetness of the leaves has been used to reduce sugar in recipes, especially when stewing tart fruits such as rhubarb. The white flowers go on to produce striking black seed heads. Great for those trying to reduce their sugar intake. Height 90cm.