Fennel

Fennel, also known as sweet fennel, is a plant with many uses. After flowering, its flowers form decorative umbels. They take the shape of domes set on a dry twig. Dried fennel looks particularly decorative when bleached. It can be an unusual addition to bouquets or more artistic compositions.

Fennel (Italian fennel)

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), also known as Italian or sweet fennel, is a plant belonging to the celery family. It originates from the Mediterranean region. Currently, it also grows wild in Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan. Fennel does not have high requirements in terms of growing conditions, which is why it has become established in gardens almost all over the world. And although it is grown primarily for its taste, it is worth remembering that its beautiful, umbellate inflorescences are also valued by florists.

What does fennel look like?

Fennel shoots grow up to 200 cm tall. They are stiff, heavily ribbed, and covered with a waxy coating. The plant develops three-pinnate sessile leaves on the stems. At the base, a bulbous swelling, commonly known as an onion, develops, which later develops into a taproot. From July to autumn, fennel blooms with small, yellow flowers gathered in inflorescences shaped like flat, compound umbels. After flowering, the fruit forms in the form of schizocarps containing two naked schizocarps.

Fennel in natural conditions and in cultivation

In nature, fennel is a perennial that primarily inhabits meadows and wastelands. It grows in exposed, sunny areas. It is resistant to temporary droughts and has low soil fertility requirements. Because it adapts well to natural conditions, it is now found almost everywhere on Earth. Due to natural seed dispersal, fennel is increasingly found growing wild. However, it should be remembered that it is not frost-resistant, so outside its native habitat, it is considered an annual.

Fennel is easy to grow. Simply provide it with a sunny location, preferably sheltered from the wind. Fennel also requires fertile and well-drained soil, rich in nutrients, and with an alkaline pH. In prolonged droughts, it's worth watering the plant regularly. Fennel is resistant to disease and pests.

Uses of fennel

Fennel has a wide range of uses. It is valued primarily as a vegetable. The edible part of the plant is the thickened bulbil, which has a sweet, aromatic flavor similar to anise. They can be grilled, stuffed, or chopped and added to salads. The tiny fennel leaves are also used in cooking, primarily added to salads or potatoes. The plant's seeds, in turn, constitute a spice with a very intense aroma that can enhance the flavor of soups, meats, sauces, and even sweet desserts, liqueurs, and alcohol-based tinctures.

Fennel is also valued for its medicinal properties. The plant's seeds are used to prepare infusions and teas, which are used for digestive problems. They have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. Fennel tea is often recommended for infants suffering from colic and flatulence. It's worth noting that in recent years, fennel has also found applications in cosmetics.

Interestingly, fennel isn't just found in vegetable patches. It also looks wonderful in the garden. It's often found in naturalistic, cottage, and rustic gardens. Because it typically reaches considerable height, it makes an excellent backdrop for other species. It also works well as a border for flower beds and paths.

Dried fennel in floristry

Although fennel is primarily known as a useful plant, its aesthetic value cannot be overlooked. Dried fennel, which take the form of domes mounted on relatively thin stems, are perfect for floristry. They are a wonderful complement to bouquets created with both fresh and dried flowers, giving the arrangement a unique character and lightness. Bleached fennel is particularly popular with florists, as it blends beautifully with various types of dried flowers. It can be combined with dried flowers, grasses, or cereals. Its neutral color makes it a good match for any bouquet color scheme. It is unmatched in ikebana. Bleached dried fennel also looks beautiful on its own. Placed in a simple glass vase, it will make a wonderful decoration for a modern interior.

Dried fennel at Blosmi

Blosmi offers dried white fennel. The stems are approximately 70-75 cm tall. Each bunch contains approximately 20 stems, weighing approximately 100 g. All plants are carefully packaged and secured for transport.