[7] The leaves are fernlike, 2–4-pinnate, finely divided, feathery, up to 50 centimetres (20 in) long, with whitish patches near the rachis.

[9][10] Myrrhis odorata is native to mountains of southern and central Europe, from the Pyrenees to the Caucasus.

It has been introduced and naturalized elsewhere in cultivated areas, woodland margins, roadside verges, river banks and grassland.

[11] In fertile soils it grows readily from seed, and may be increased by division in spring or autumn.

[13] Its leaves are sometimes used as a herb, either raw or cooked, with a rather strong or sweet taste similar to anise.