Foeniculum vulgare
common fennel
Robust, upright, aromatic perennial plant to 1.8m tall, with 3 to 4 pinnate mid-green leaves composed of hair-like segments, and branching stems bearing flat umbels of small yellow flowers in summer; both leaves and fruits are aniseed-scented
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy, Clump forming
- Genus
Foeniculum is a large biennial or perennial with aromatic, finely dissected leaves and umbels of small yellow flowers, followed by aromatic fruits
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mediterranean
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained, fertile soil in full sun. May have the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well. See fennel cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Gravel garden
- Architectural
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Patio and container plants
- Prairie planting
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
- Cut flowers
Pruning
No pruning required. Remove spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding
Pests
Diseases
Powdery mildews may occur
Get involved
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