Smooth Sweet Cicely
Osmorhiza longistylis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 35 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Smooth sweet cicely is a native wildflower with delicate, fern-like foliage and small white flowers arranged in umbrella-shaped clusters. This shade-loving perennial blooms from May through July and goes dormant in winter, making it ideal for woodland gardens or shaded borders.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smooth 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.
- Looks very wild and weedy to most homeowners
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
- Delicate appearance may be seen as unkempt
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies during the spring and summer blooming period. Seeds may provide food for small birds and wildlife.
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.
Does Smooth Sweet Cicely fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.