Guide Note

The perennial herb Foeniculum vulgare, more commonly known as fennel, goes particularly well with fish and is a common additive to Italian sausages. Its flavor is similar to, but much milder than licorice, anise and star anise.

Fennel's compact white bulb gives way to narrow celery-like stalks topped by feathery leaves. All parts of the plant are edible, and the seeds are dried for use as a spice.

Fennel has a long history of use in herbal medicine: It is a mild stimulant and diuretic, helps reduce inflammation and improves digestion.

Fast Facts

1. Native to Southern Europe and Asia
2. The bulb is high in vitamin C
3. Grows year round
4. Considered an invasive weed in the United States and Australia
5. Related to parsley, dill, carrots and coriander
6. Used to flavor some brandy-based drinks
7. An ingredient in absinthe