Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare dulce)

Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Foeniculum vulgare dulce is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is 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. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

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

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 or added to salads.; The leaves are difficult to store dried.

Habitat & North American Range

Not found in the wild. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)