Osmorhiza claytonii
Sweet cicely
 
Osmorhiza claytonii thrives in rich, moist, and well-drained soils. It does best in dappled sunlight or light shade, making it a perfect understory plant. Smooth sweet cicely reaches about 1 to 3 feet tall and often appears in clusters, with delicate, fern-like foliage and small white flowers. 
 
Sweet cicely is an excellent plant for attracting wildlife. The flowers are rich in nectar and provide food for a range of pollinators, including native flies like the purple-winged Tachinid fly (Exorista mella), which help with pollination. The seeds that follow the flowers are loved by birds, particularly small songbirds like the dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis) and the American goldfinch (Spinus tristis). Additionally, its aromatic leaves provide forage for herbivorous insects like caterpillars of the beautiful yellow and black-spotted spicebush swallowtail (Papilio troilus). All in all, smooth sweet cicely is a true buffet for forest critters.
 
Fun fact: In early spring, the young leaves of Osmorhiza claytonii are edible and have a mild, sweet flavor, reminiscent of anise or licorice. Some foragers enjoy adding them to salads or using them as a flavoring in cooking! Just be sure to grab them early before the plant matures and its scent becomes more intense. (always do your own research before comsuming any plant)