Fennel (Foeniculum dulce fennel)
published: Thursday | March 2, 2006

FENNEL is a highly aromatic perennial herb that grows annually about three to four feet tall. The leaves grow up to 40 cm long and are finely divided into threadlike segments and are light green. Fennel grows easily from seed planted in the garden in spring. It has strong edible flavoured leaves and seeds. The flavour is similar to that of anise and star anise, though usually not so strong.

Chef Garfield Victor, at the Palm Court Restaurant at the Hilton hotel, said fennel complements fish very well. It can be used as a condiment and the stems can be eaten like celery. The seeds can be used in cheese spreads and vegetable dishes. The essential oils of fennel in the European culture and some national pharmacies are traditionally used in drugs to treat chills and stomach problems.