Foeniculum vulgare

Figure 1. A flowering Fennel plant.

Foeniculum vulgare or Fennel is a flowering plant species in the carrot family Apiaceae. It is a perennial herb with yellow flowers and feathery leaves. Foeniculum vulgare is indigenous to the shores of the Mediterranean but has become widely naturalized in many parts of the world, especially on dry soils near the seacoast and on riverbanks. Foeniculum vulgare is widely cultivated both in its native range and elsewhere for its edible, strongly flavoured leaves and fruits. Its aniseed or liquorice flavour comes from anethole, an aromatic compound also found in anise and star anise, and its taste and aroma are similar to theirs, though usually not as strong. The bulb, foliage, and fruits of Foeniculum vulgare are used in many of the culinary traditions of the world.

For nutritional values, refer to the Codex entry for Fennel.