Florence Fennel - Plant Care Reminders Here

Written by Steve Brigham

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Finochio Although it is related to the perennial Common Fennel, Florence Fennel is different in that it is a smaller plant that is grown as an annual for its thick leafstalk bases, which are popular in Italian cooking and used as a vegetable either cooked or raw. Like Common Fennel, its anise-flavored feathery leaves are also used in salads, for seasoning, and as a garnish.

Florence Fennel is grown from seed as a summer annual in most climates, although in mild-winter climates it may also be grown as a fall and winter annual. Plants grow quickly from seed to around 2 feet tall in full sun with regular watering and feeding. Many varieties exist, some of which have been selected for cooler summers (or for cool-season growing) and others for hot summers. In warm-summer regions, it is important to choose a non-bolting variety, which will be slower to bloom and set seed. If you do let the plants bloom, their big clusters of small yellow flowers will attract butterflies. Birds like the small seeds which follow, and you can also use the seeds for flavoring.