Easily grown in moist, organically rich, well-drained soils in full sun. May be grown from seed that is sown directly in the garden in spring. Freely self-seeds in the garden. Remove spent flowering stems before seed is produced to avoid any unwanted self-seeding.
Foeniculum vulgare (common fennel) is an upright, branching perennial that is typically grown in vegetable and herb gardens for its anise-flavored foliage and seeds, both of which are commonly harvested for use in cooking. 'Purpureum' is an ornamental cultivar that is noted for its attractive purple-bronze foliage. It typically grows in an upright mound to 3-5’ (less frequently to 6’) tall with a spread of 2-3'. Feathery, compound, aromatic, purple-bronze leaves with needle-like segments are attractive in the garden. Tiny yellow flowers in large, flattened, compound umbels bloom in mid- to late summer. Flowers are followed by aromatic fennel seeds. Flowers are very attractive to bees, butterflies and birds. Fennel is a larval plant for certain swallowtail butterflies.
Although the seeds and foliage of this fennel may be harvested for culinary purposes, 'Purpureum' is typically grown as an ornamental plant in celebration of its attractive purple bronze foliage that adds considerable color and interest to garden areas. Plants rise 3-5 feet tall and feature feathery, compound, aromatic, purple-bronze leaves with needle-like segments. Tiny yellow flowers in large flattened umbels bloom in mid to late summer. Flowers are followed by aromatic fennel seeds. Plants are attractive to bees, butterflies and birds.
No serious insect or disease problems. Stem and root rot may occur, especially in poorly-drained soils. Watch for aphids and slugs. Larvae (caterpillars) of swallowtail butterflies may chew on the foliage
Borders, vegetable gardens, herb gardens, cottage gardens or meadows. Good plant for a butterfly garden. Seeds may be harvested for use as flavoring in a variety of foods such as bakery products or sausages. Chopped leaves may be used as flavoring for eggs, breads, salads, potatoes, chicken, pork and fish.
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Missouri Botanical Garden
4344 Shaw Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63110(314) 577-5100 hours and admission
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