There are 7 species of herbaceous perennials in this genus in the carrot family of plants. They are native to parts of Europe and Western Asia. The name is Greek for the words for "goat" and "foot" which the leaves resemble. The plant was also once thought to cure the gout.

Although the variegated form called Snow in the Mountain is still commonly sold as a groundcover, it should be kept in mind that this can be a very invasive plant. The totally green species form is even more aggressive and will spread rapidly through an area. Keep that in mind before you plant any Aegopodium or you may live to regret your decision for years to come.