It is easy to pass by this plant assuming it is just a poor example of the aniseroot (O. longistylis). It is, however, a distinct, but similar native perennial species of the carrot family. It is a bit smaller than aniseroot and has smaller flower clusters (4-7 flowers per cluster) a fact that is easily missed by the casual hiker.  The flower cluster is flattened (an umbel). The plant also has densely fuzzy stems, compared to the sparse hairs of the aniseroot. This is the easiest way to tell the difference between the two related species. The flowers of the two species are similar, but sweet cicely has 2 short styles that do not extend beyond the petals. Individual flowers are less than ¹⁄₁₆ of an inch wide and have 5 petals.

The roots and crushed leaves of both species have the odor of anise or licorice (although aniseroot has a bit of a stronger smell). The leaves of both species are similar - light green and compounded into three leaflets. Each leaflet may also be divided, toothed, or lobed. Both species bloom in late spring in wooded areas. This requires some degree of shade tolerance. The fruit is a dry brown schizocarp up to one inch long. It splits into 2 parts when ripe and is dormant during the winter.