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Herbs - CulinaryHerbaceous Perennial

Foeniculum vulgare
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

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

Other common names
fenkell
fennel
see morefinckle
finkel
Sabbath day posy
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn Green Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical 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

May be susceptible to aphids and slugs

Diseases

Powdery mildews may occur

Get involved

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