Fennel

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Fennel, common name for a perennial plant (see Parsley), characterized chiefly by its aromatic leaves and seeds. Fennel grows from about 61 to 122 cm (about 24 to 48 in) in height and has small yellow flowers. The common fennel is cultivated in both Europe and America. Its leaves and seeds are used for flavoring. Another variety, called variously Florence fennel, sweet fennel, Italian fennel, or Cretan fennel, is cultivated in southern Europe. The bases of the leafstalks of Florence fennel are greatly enlarged and form a bulbous structure, which is bleached by earthing and then eaten raw or cooked. The seed of Florence fennel is used widely in Italy as an aromatic condiment and as a medicine.

Scientific classification: Fennel belongs to the family Apiaceae (formerly Umbelliferae). It is classified as Foeniculum vulgare. The common fennel is classified as Foeniculum vulgare variety azoricum, and the Florence fennel as Foeniculum vulgare variety dulce.

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