Bronze Fennel
Certified Organic
Foeniculum vulgare
Attractive feathery herb that's delicious fresh or for its seeds.
In Greek myth, humans receive the gift of fire from Prometheus, who uses a dried fennel stalk to conceal an ember from Mount Olympus. We see hints of this fire in Bronze Fennel’s appearance: the fine, feathery leaves have a ruddy, purplish hue and create a soft, smoky effect in the garden. Bright yellow blooms appear at maturity, attracting swallowtail butterflies and other pollinators. Enjoy this variety as an ornamental or harvest the fragrant leaves and sweet, anise-flavored seeds for meals. It grows quickly, spreads easily, and self-sows. This is not a fennel for bulb production; harvest the leaves and chop them finely for tossing fresh atop a finished dish, like parsley.
from $3.99
| Unit | Price | Quantity | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art Pack (200 seeds) | $4.79 | In Stock | |
| 200 Seeds | $3.99 | In Stock | |
| 600 Seeds | $6.99 | In Stock |
Price as selected:
Direct sow in spring as soon as the danger of frost has passed in well-draining soil. Water thoroughly after planting and once a week during summer, unless rainfall is plentiful. Established plants can generally get by on less water. Carefully thin seedlings to 12 inches apart after seedlings are established. Fennel has a long tap root which should not be disturbed after planting. Cut back to the ground at the end of the season after seeds have formed. Some plants may overwinter in zones 5 and above. Use the edible foliage, flowers and seeds, or enjoy as an ornamental, pollinator-attracting plant.
| Days to Germination | 7-14 |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 60 |
| Planting Depth | ¼" |
| Spacing in Row | 12" |
| Spacing Between Rows | 18" |
| Height at Maturity | 4' |
| Width at Maturity | 18-24" |
| Sun Preference | Full Sun |
Leo Covault is inspired by historical fashion, folk tales and shadow puppets. In this theatrical, mixed media illustration, he tells the story of Prometheus stealing fire in a stem of smoky, bronze fennel.