Foeniculum vulgare 'Copper Leaf'

Sunset

Foeniculum vulgare

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Zones 2B, 3-11, 14-24, 29-41, H1, H2

Full, Partial

Moderate, Minimal

Copper-Leaf Fennel
Apiaceae (Umbelliferae)
Herbs, Perennials

FOENICULUM

This plant grows 3 to 5 ft. tall, and is similar in appearance to dill (Anethum graveolens), but its yellow-green foliage, though finely cut, is coarser. Plant produces flat clusters of yellow flowers that insects love in summer. Cultivated for its licorice-flavored seeds and young leaves, fennel is a perennial in zones where it is well adapted, a winter annual in desert zones 12 and 13.

Use seeds to season baked goods; use young leaves as garnish for salads, fish, and other dishes. Common fennel often grows as a roadside or garden weed (in Hawaii and parts of California, it can be invasive); it’s attractive until tops turn brown, and even then birds like the seeds. New stems grow in spring from perennial root.

'Copper Leaf'

From the Mediterranean. Grows 6 ft. tall from clumps; produces bronzy-green foliage and yellow summer flowers that insects love, and seeds that have a sweet licorice flavor.