Caraway, common name for a plant that has long been cultivated in temperate zones for its aromatic fruit, called caraway seeds. These seeds are used in cookery, confectionery, and medicine. The caraway plant is a biennial herb; it grows up to 61 cm (up to 2 ft) high and has finely divided leaves and clusters of white flowers. The large oil glands of the seed contain caraway oil, which is used to flavor the liqueur aquavit. This oil is also used in perfumery and in pharmacy as an aromatic stimulant and as a flavoring agent.
Scientific classification: The caraway plant belongs to the family Apiaceae (formerly Umbelliferae). It is classified as Carum carvi.
Scientific classification: The caraway plant belongs to the family Apiaceae (formerly Umbelliferae). It is classified as Carum carvi.
