Fennel Sweet Leaf

A perennial herb that has dark-green, soft, feathery foliage. Highly flavourful tasting of aniseed and licorice both the leaves and seeds are edible and it is one of the primary ingredients in absinthe.

The leaves are used particularly in fish dishes and as a pretty garnish. The seeds are commonly used in many cuisines to flavour sweet and savoury dishes.

Medicinally used to treat indigestion, colic and as a gargle for mouth sores and sore throats. When prepared as a tea, it has a calming effect and is said to help with digestion, breastfeeding and to relieve coughs.

The hollow stems can be used as eco-friendly straws for sipping summer drinks.

Native to the Mediterranean, fennel grows well in drier and hotter conditions but generally tolerates most garden conditions. Easy to grow and hardy. Fennel dies down in the autumn and will resprout from the base in spring.

Note: Medicinal use of herbs requires thorough research. We advise checking with a medical professional particularly if pregnant, breastfeeding or on medication.