Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a plant species in the genus Foeniculum (treated as the sole species in the genus by most botanists). It is a member of the family Apiaceae (formerly the Umbelliferae). It is a hardy, perennial, umbelliferous herb, with yellow flowers and feathery leaves. It is indigenous to the shores of the Mediterranean, but has become widely naturalised in many parts of the world, especially on dry soils near the sea-coast and on riverbanks.
Botanical Name Foeniculum vulgare
Family Apiaceae
Part Used Fruit
Hotness Scale 1
Flavour Similar to wild anise
Harvesting Season February to March
Other names Common Fennel, Florence Fennel, Large Fennel.
Chew a couple fennel seeds for bad breath. For stomach cramp relief, you can brew a tea by steeping 1 teaspoon seeds per cup of boiling water. Strain before drinking. Crush seeds slightly when making tea. Fennel is also good for flatulence.
