How much sun does Lesser Sweet-cicely need?

Lesser Sweet-cicely grows best in part shade conditions.

When does Lesser Sweet-cicely bloom?

Lesser Sweet-cicely blooms in May, June, and July.

Where is Lesser Sweet-cicely native?

Lesser Sweet-cicely (Osmorhiza depauperata) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 11 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

Is Lesser Sweet-cicely toxic to livestock?

The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Lesser Sweet-cicely as toxic to livestock.

What pollinators does Lesser Sweet-cicely attract?

Lesser Sweet-cicely draws bees, beetles, and flies.

Is Lesser Sweet-cicely HOA-friendly?

Lesser Sweet-cicely takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Lesser Sweet-cicely

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Osmorhiza depauperata

Last reviewed: June 2026

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Lesser Sweet-cicely as toxic to livestock.

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 11 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles, flies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central Basin and Range Mojave Basin and Range

Lesser sweet-cicely is a delicate woodland perennial with fern-like foliage and small clusters of white flowers in late spring and early summer. The plant grows 1-3 feet tall and thrives in partially shaded areas with average moisture. The plant has a refined appearance that works well in naturalized settings.

In an HOA neighborhood

Lesser Sweet-cicely takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Resembles common weedy plants in carrot family
May be mistaken for invasive species
Informal wildflower appearance doesn't suit formal landscapes

Wildlife value

The small white flowers attract various beneficial insects including native bees, beetles, and flies during its May through July bloom period. This native plant provides nectar for pollinators while maintaining a relatively tidy garden presence.

Common questions

How much sun does Lesser Sweet-cicely need?: Lesser Sweet-cicely grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Lesser Sweet-cicely bloom?: Lesser Sweet-cicely blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Lesser Sweet-cicely native?: Lesser Sweet-cicely (Osmorhiza depauperata) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 11 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Lesser Sweet-cicely toxic to livestock?: The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Lesser Sweet-cicely as toxic to livestock.
What pollinators does Lesser Sweet-cicely attract?: Lesser Sweet-cicely draws bees, beetles, and flies.
Is Lesser Sweet-cicely HOA-friendly?: Lesser Sweet-cicely takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Lesser Sweet-cicely? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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