Foeniculum vulgare
TAXONOMY
FamilyApiaceae
GenusFoeniculum
Zone6
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is a flowering plant species in the carrot family Apiaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region but has become widely naturalized in many parts of the world. Fennel is a hardy, perennial herb with yellow flowers and feathery leaves. It is known for its aromatic seeds and leaves, which are used in cooking and traditional medicine.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Anethum Minus
Anethum Panmori
Anethum Panmorium
Anethum Pannorium
Anethum Rupestre
Aniseed-Weed
Fennel
Ozodia Foeniculacea
Wild Fennel
Anethum dulce
Anethum foeniculum
Anethum piperitum
Foeniculum azoricum
Foeniculum capillaceum
Foeniculum divaricatum
Foeniculum dulce
Foeniculum foeniculum
Foeniculum giganteum
Foeniculum officinale
Foeniculum panmorium
Foeniculum piperitum
Foeniculum rigidum
Foeniculum vulgare subsp. capillaceum
Foeniculum vulgare subsp. piperitum
Foeniculum vulgare subsp. sativum
Foeniculum vulgare var. capillaceum
Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce
Foeniculum vulgare var. inodorum
Foeniculum vulgare var. piperitum
Foeniculum vulgare var. sativum
Ligusticum foeniculum
Meum foeniculum
Meum piperitum
Selinum foeniculum
Seseli dulce
Seseli foeniculum
Seseli piperitum
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
GDD1,350
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Fennel requires full sun and moderate temperatures to thrive. It prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. Fennel can tolerate a range of humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity. It is important to protect the plant from extreme cold and frost.Harvest
Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is typically ready for harvest about 90 days after planting. The best time to harvest fennel is when the bulbs are about the size of a tennis ball and the plant has a strong, anise-like aroma. To harvest, cut the bulb at the base just above the soil line, ensuring you leave the roots in the ground to encourage regrowth. The fronds and seeds can also be harvested; fronds can be cut as needed, while seeds should be collected when they turn brown and start to dry on the plant. It's important to harvest before the first frost to avoid damage to the plant.Soil
Fennel prefers well-drained loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support healthy growth. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot, so ensure the soil is not waterlogged.Fertilizer
Fennel benefits from a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of seed production.Repotting
Fennel can be repotted if it outgrows its container. The best time to repot is in early spring before the growing season begins. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Fennel can be propagated by seeds or division. The best time to propagate by seeds is in early spring. Sow the seeds directly into the soil, covering them lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. For division, dig up the plant in early spring or fall and separate the clumps, replanting them in well-prepared soil.Pruning
Pruning fennel is important to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. Prune the plant in early spring by cutting back the stems to about 6 inches above the ground. Remove any dead or damaged stems throughout the growing season to maintain the plant's health.Toxicity
Fennel is generally considered non-toxic to pets and humans. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to fennel, particularly if they have sensitivities to other plants in the Apiaceae family. It is always best to handle the plant with care and monitor for any adverse reactions.Additional
Fennel is not only valued for its culinary uses but also for its medicinal properties. It has been used traditionally to aid digestion, relieve bloating, and as a natural remedy for colic in infants. The seeds can be harvested and dried for use in cooking or herbal teas.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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