Smyrnium

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A genus of flowering plants known for their aromatic properties and typically found in the Mediterranean region
2. characterized by fleshy stems and often used in traditional medicine
3. belonging to the Apiaceae family, these plants bear umbels of small flowers and can be used in culinary applications as well

Etymology: Smyrnium is a genus of plants in the parsley family, and its name comes from Greek "smyrna," meaning myrrh, the aromatic resin. Botanists chose it because the leaves of these plants give off a scent that was thought to resemble myrrh, the fragrant gum used in ancient incense and perfumes. The Greek word was itself borrowed into Latin as "smyrna" and "myrrha," which is why the same root appears across several European languages. The genus was named by the naturalist Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century, drawing on the older Greek and Latin terms. The best-known member, Smyrnium olusatrum, is called alexanders, a name that reflects its use as a pot herb in medieval gardens. Its leaves and stems were eaten like celery, and it was once widely cultivated before being largely replaced by celery and parsley.

Synonyms: alexanders, smirnium