Fennel

Name Origin:

The old Latin name for fennel, Fæniculum is derived from the word for hay.
 

Natural Order:

Umbelliferæ
 

Growing Cycle:

Biennual or perennial herb
 

Origins:

It has spread much as civilization has particularly where Italians have colonized and may be found growing wild in many parts of the world near the sea coast and upon river banks. Learn more of the History of Fennel.
 

Height:

Fennel grows to 5-6 feet tall
 

Characteristics:

The core of the fennel plant is similar in appearance to celery but more of a shape like an onion. The branches grow up the sides of this core into delicate, feathery branches like shown above.
 

Fennel Flowers:

Green flowers.
 
 

Seed is most viable when fresh but is known to have germinated after 4 or more years.

Sowing Fennel Seeds.

Sow fennel in nursery beds or where the plants are to remain. Makes drills 6 inches apart and plant fennel seeds no more than 1-3 inches deep.
 
In some climates, seeds are sown in late summer and in autumn for early crops the following spring.
 

Cultivation.

Once seedlings are 3 inches tall, transplant to a placement of 15-18 apart in rows two to two and one-half feet apart. (Thinnings may be used for culinary purposes.)
 
Plants are quite hardy and can grow in very cold, not freezing, weather. Many herbal gardeners are able to make several successional sowings, 1-2 weeks apart to ensure fresh fennel stalks from midsummer to December.
 
Unless seed is desired for successive plantings, flower stems should be cut as soon as they appear.
 

Harvesting Fennel.

Fennel is best harvested when the plant is about to bloom.