About
Vigorous, herbaceous perennial with finely dissected, feathery, vivid green foliage and somewhat swollen leaf bases (though not as bulbous as traditional Florence fennel). It is mainly grown as a culinary herb for its sweet, aromatic foliage and aniseed-flavoured seeds. Height around 1.5m (5ft).
About the genus
Foeniculum is a large biennial or perennial with aromatic, finely dissected leaves and umbels of small yellow flowers, followed by aromatic fruits
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbs - Culinary, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. May have the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well. See fennel cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required. Cut back dead stems in autumn or winter. Remove faded flowers to prevent self-seeding
PropagationPropagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and slugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to root rots