About
Anethum graveolens 'Dukat' is a robust annual or biennial plant characterized by its finely divided, fragrant blue-green foliage and large flat clusters of small yellow blooms that appear in summer. This cultivar is valued for its dense, dark green leaves and well-structured growth habit. Commonly cultivated as an annual, dill is prized for its fresh leaves, which enhance a variety of dishes, particularly fish roe and potatoes. Additionally, it is sought after for its cut foliage and floral arrangements. While it typically flowers and sets seed in its second year, all parts of the plant—leaves, flowers, and seeds—are edible. Dill seeds are notable for their culinary versatility, offering a milder flavor profile that complements pickling, vinaigrettes, and marinades.
About the genus
Anethum includes both annual and biennial species, characterized by their anise-scented foliage. The leaves are divided into narrow segments, and during the summer, they produce clusters of small yellow flowers arranged in umbels.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial, Herbs - Culinary
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1-2 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Gravel garden
- Fragrance
- Flower, Foliage
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Sow direct in 1cm deep rows and lightly cover with soil, thin to 15cm apart when large enough to handle. The roots don't like disturbance so don't transplant. See cultivating herbs.
- Pruning
- Deadhead to prevent self-seeding.
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed.
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free.