Florence Fennel Seeds

Florence Fennel is a perennial but is normally grown as an annual. Plants produce a swollen bulbous base with short stems and fine feathery foliage. It has a sweet flavour that is comparable to a cross between celery and aniseed. The base is used as a vegetable and can be used either raw or cooked; great fried, baked and steamed. The leaves are used as a flavouring, garnish and an additional to salads. The seeds are also very aromatic and are commonly used as a spice to flavour many dishes both sweet and savory. Fennel is truly a garden treasure with its remarkable versatility in the kitchen and striking appearance in your garden beds. The bulb, with its crisp texture and delicate anise flavor, becomes even more succulent when braised or roasted, developing caramelized edges that bring out its natural sweetness. Many Australian chefs prize fennel for its ability to complement seafood dishes, particularly when paired with citrus in summer salads. The feathery fronds aren't just beautiful garnishes—they add sophisticated flavor.

How To Grow:

Sow direct in Autumn, Spring & early Summer 8mm deep, 40cm apart. Germination 7-14 days. Florence Fennel thrives in Australia's climate and rewards gardeners with its versatile culinary uses. For best results, prepare a sunny bed with well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost before sowing. This Mediterranean native prefers a soil pH between 6.0-7.0 and consistent moisture during the bulb formation stage. When planting, create shallow drills and space seeds evenly to allow proper bulb development. Thin seedlings once they reach 10cm tall, selecting the strongest plants. Florence Fennel develops best during cooler weather, making autumn plantings ideal for many Australian regions as the bulbs mature during milder temperatures. Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells, but avoid overwatering which can lead to rot. Apply a light mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. For sweeter, more tender bulbs, blanch them by mounding soil around the base when they reach the size of a golf ball. Harvest your fennel when the bulbs are firm and about 7-10cm in diameter, typically 80-115 days after sowing. Cut just above soil level with a sharp knife. The entire plant is usable—crisp bulbs for salads or roasting, feathery fronds as herbs, and seeds for spices or saving for next season's planting. Florence Fennel makes an excellent companion.

Harvest 

80-90 days 

Packet contains 30 seeds.

Note :  Plantlifeangel sources all of their seeds in small local batches were possible to ensure seeds are at their maximum viability for germination. Please note our seeds are processed and packed by hand.