All parts of this herb are aromatic and delicious! The bulb, foliage, and herb seeds of the fennel plant are widely used in many of the culinary traditions of the world. Fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare) 'Florence' is widely cultivated, both in its native range and elsewhere, for its edible, strongly-flavoured leaves and fennel herb seeds. The flavour is similar to that of anise, though usually not so strong and more aromatic and sweeter.
All parts of fennel are aromatic, imparting a sweet anise, or licorice, scent and flavor. Kids - or adults - who like black licorice will love chomping on the raw bulbs of fennel! Growing to 60 inches tall and 24 inches wide, florence fennel is topped by erect, hollow stems with pale yellow flower umbels. It differs from regular fennel because the stalk forms an edible bulbous base that fades to white.
Grow in rich, light soil in a warm location and provide ample water so that the bulbs will form properly. Sow herb seed directly in garden as soon as ground can be worked. Place one fennel seed every 3 inches and cover lightly with soil. Thin plants to 9" apart when they are 2" tall.
Season: Annual
Height: 2 - 5 feet
Bloom Color: Yellow
Bloom Season: Early Summer
Environment: Full Sun, Moist but Well Drained
Approximate Seeds Per Ounce: 4,000