Definition

Proper noun * A perennial herb: Myrrhis odorata is the scientific name for a European herbaceous plant. It is characterized by soft, fern-like leaves and clusters of small white flowers. It is commonly known as sweet cicely.

Usage Notes

• is a formal, botanical term. In everyday gardening or culinary contexts, the common name "sweet cicely" is almost always used instead.
• As a proper noun (the scientific name of a species), it is typically written in italics. The genus name () is capitalized, while the species epithet () is not.

Examples

• In botanical context:
  • The garden features a section for aromatic herbs, including Myrrhis odorata.
  • Myrrhis odorata is native to mountainous regions of Central Europe.

Advanced Usage

• The species epithet "" is a Latin word meaning "fragrant" or "sweet-smelling," which describes the plant's anise-like scent.

Variants and Related Words

• Sweet cicely (n): The standard common name for .
• Myrrh (n): A fragrant resin obtained from trees of the genus ; while the names are similar, myrrh is unrelated to .

Synonyms

• Sweet cicely
• Garden myrrh (an occasional common name, but can be confused with the resin myrrh)

Noun

1. European herb with soft ferny leaves and white flowers