ANISEROOT SEEDS

Osmorhiza longistylis

An American woodland species, distinguished by its strong sweet anise scent and flavor. In spring through early summer fairly large umbellets of white flowers appear atop broad ferny plants that grow 2'-3' in all directions. The flowers, seeds, and crushed leaves smell strongly of anise, but it is the thick taproot that is most intensely perfumed and flavored. The plant is entirely edible.

Aniseroot is challenging to cultivate in typical garden culture, but can be grown successfully in a modest suburban woodland or in a mossy informal shade garden on the north side of a building where you might otherwise plant ferns. It is absolutely ideal for filling out a forest garden with an established canopy. Worth experimenting with in diverse shaded environs, even container culture, if you do not already have the opportunity to forage this useful and beautiful species.

Seeds require stratification to germinate: tuck seeds below the surface of moist rich soil and press to keep seed snug. Mist generously and cover with plastic to maintain moisture. Place in the refrigerator or outdoors in a sheltered location outdoors (a screen porch, for example, out of direct sunlight) to overwinter for at least two months. Take care to keep the soil moist. After two months bring refrigerated pots to cool room temperature (60°F) and bright indirect light. A cool north windowsill is great. Pots placed outdoors should be left there to allow the seeds to germinate naturally as the days warm in spring (taking care to uncover if exposure involves any direct sunlight lest the seeds overheat). Seeds will germinate over several weeks either way, and some may not germinate at all. This species is among those umbellifers that create a "bank" of seeds in the soil, waiting to germinate over several years. If you have the patience, keep the pot to overwinter again next year or place in the refrigerator for another 8 weeks to trick the seeds into thinking another winter has passed. Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual deep 6" pots in bright indirect light at cool temperatures. Carefully harden off plants started indoors before planting into cool shaded soils in spring or autumn. Water frequently until young plants are thoroughly rooted.

Harvest young leaves sparingly for use as an herb. Seeds may be used like those of Anise or Fennel. Roots may be dug for fresh or dried use in the second or subsequent years. Plants will self-sow if allowed, eventually creating a small colony where they are happy.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.