Fennel
Foeniculum vulgare
Common Fennel, Fenkell, Finckle, Finkel, Sabbath Day Posy, Aniseed-Weed, Sweet Fennel
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Fennel 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.
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Planning
Difficulty
Moderate
Flowering time
Summer
Fruiting time
Autumn
Harvesting
Bulbs can be harvested 20 days after earthing up. Cut the bulb at the base to encourage regrowth.
Propagation
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
Attracts butterflies
Attracts bees
Attracts birds
Attracts useful insects
Repels harmful insects
Repels aphids
Special features
Origin
Mediterranean
Environment
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade, Partial Sun
Soil moisture
Moist
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil PH preference
Neutral, Alkaline, Acid
Frost hardiness
Tender
Uses
Edible
The seeds are used as a spice whereas the shoots and bulbs are used as a vegetable.
Personality
Family
Apiaceae
Flower colour
Yellow
Scent
Strong
Companion plants
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Knowledge and advice
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