Fennel

Fennel Overview

Foeniculum vulgare is known as Fennel, it can be grown as an ornamental or as a culinary herb. With its finely divided foliage and attractive yellow flowers, it encourages all kinds of wildlife to a garden from pollinators such as bees and butterflies to birds that eat the seed. Fennel has a strong aniseed flavour that is used in a variety of food products including soups and pesto and the seeds can be used in curries.

How to harvest Fennel

Bulbs can be harvested 20 days after earthing up. Cut the bulb at the base to encourage regrowth.

How to propagate Fennel

Seed

Sow in early spring in situ for best results. Seeds require a light covering of soil and to be spaced around 30 cm apart.

Division

Divide in March as the new growth emerges.

Special features of Fennel

Attracts butterflies

Attracts bees

Attracts birds

Attracts useful insects

Repels harmful insects

Repels aphids

Other uses of Fennel

It has a fragrance and it can be used for foliage or for ornamental used but it is also used as a vegetable. Suitable for coastal conditions. Attracts butterflies

Edible

The seeds are used as a spice whereas the shoots and bulbs are used as a vegetable.