Yellow Fennel Flower (Nigella orientalis)

Family: Ranunculaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Nigella orientalis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The seed is sometimes used to adulterate pepper. — The seed is sometimes used to adulterate pepper.

Habitat & North American Range

Cornfields and dry hills on calcareous soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)