Foeniculum (Fennel): Ornamental & Culinary Herb for Sunny, Well-Drained Beds

Two Forms, One Culture

Green fennel (F. vulgare) and bronze fennel (‘Purpureum’) share the same needs: full sun, moist well-drained soil, and a neutral pH. Plants are short-lived but self-sow generously.

Care Calendar

• Water weekly first year; established plants tolerate drought.
• No fertilizer first year; light balanced granular in early spring thereafter.
• Remove spent flower stems to limit seedlings (or let them naturalize).

Leaves and seeds have anise flavor; flowers attract beneficial insects.