Sweet Florence fennel or finocchio (Foeniculum vulgare var. azoricum) is grown primarily for its bulbous base and leaf stalks which are used as vegetables. Fennel is a stocky plant that can grow to 24 inches (61cm) tall and looks something like celery with fleshy stalks and feathery leaves.
Florence Fennel Culinary Uses
Fennel has a sweet aroma and an aniseed flavor. Use leaves in fish stock, sauces and stuffings and in mayonnaise, flavored butters and salad dressings. The dried stalks can be placed under grilled or barbecued fish. At the two-leafed stage, the seedlings make a pungent addition to salads, reminiscent of mustard. The stronger tasting fennel seeds have a flavor more like aniseed or licorice. They can be used as a spice, particularly in cakes, breads and stuffings.
Florence Fennel Medicinal Benefits
- Anti-Spasmodic
- Anti-flatulence
- Assists with Anemia
- Helps with weight loss
- Assists with milk production
- Anti-Microbial
- Relieves Respiratory Problems
- Beneficial During Menopause
Growing Sweet Florence Fennel
Indoor Sowing: Not Recommended.
Direct Sowing: Late Spring.
- Fennel will grow in most any soil, but the richer the soil, the more tender the foliage and the less aromatic the seed.
- It likes a well-drained, sheltered but sunny position.
- It is easily propagated by seeds.
- Seedlings do not transplant well, so it is better to sow Fennel Seeds directly in the garden in the late spring.
- Plant them 25 to 30cm apart and then thin them out as necessary.
- It grows a very deep taproot which is difficult to pull up, so remove unwanted seedlings while young.
Medical Disclaimer
Information is for educational and informational purposes only and may not be construed as medical advice. The information is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment offered by healthcare professionals.