Foeniculum vulgare (common fennel) is a member of the Apiaceae family. This culinary herb exhibits a bushy, clump forming growth habit and is characterised by its deciduous foliage. It has a hardiness rating of hardy (cold winter [-15 to -10ºc]) and is hardy throughout most of the UK, even in severe winters. May not withstand open or exposed sites or central/northerly locations, with many evergreens suffering foliage damage and plants in pots being at increased risk. It features a foliage, fruit fragrance.
When fully mature, Foeniculum vulgare can reach an ultimate height of 1.5–2.5 metres and a spread of 0.1–0.5 metres. For optimal growth, it prefers a south–facing or west–facing aspect and a sheltered position. It thrives best in chalk, clay, loam, or sand soil types and should be placed in full sun.
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Fruit
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Stem
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