Fennel

Fennel offers feathery foliage, aromatic seed, edible flowers, and—in bulbing varieties—a crisp, anise-scented base for the kitchen. Grow herb fennel for leaves and seed, or Florence fennel for tender bulbs used fresh, roasted, braised, or grilled.

Direct sow where plants will grow, since fennel dislikes root disturbance. Give bulbing types cool conditions, steady moisture, and room to swell, while herb fennel can remain in place longer for flowers, beneficial insects, and mature seed.