Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae | Edibility: Choice Edible (5/5)

Foeniculum vulgare is an evergreen Perennial growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

delicious aniseed flavour, the young leaves are best since older ones soon become tough. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; A delicious aniseed flavour, the young leaves are best since older ones soon become tough.; They are often used as a garnish on raw or cooked dishes and make a very pleasant addition to salads.; They help to improve digestion and so are particularly useful with oily foods.

Habitat & North American Range

Found most often in dry stony calcareous soils near the sea. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)