Fennel is a versatile and flavorful herbaceous plant that can be used in a smorgasbord of culinary dishes . It number in two main variety : unwashed fennel ( Foeniculum vulgare ) and bulb fennel ( Foeniculum vulgare var . dulce ) . The growth substance abuse of these two types of Florence fennel differs , and this affects whether or not they will regrow after harvesting .
Common fennel is a herbaceous perennial , which means that it will regrow each year . It has feathery , fern - like leaves and can reach peak of up to 6 metrical foot . Common fennel is chiefly grown for its redolent foliage , which can be used in salads , soups , and fish dish . It also give rise lowly yellow flower that draw good insects like bees and butterflies .
When reap common common fennel , you could cut the foliage down to earth level , leaving a few inches of root word . This will encourage new growth to issue from the Qaeda of the plant . However , it ’s important to note that vulgar Florence fennel can become invasive in some areas , scatter through its fertile seed product . So , if you require to prevent self - seeding and assert control over the plant , it ’s a good estimation to harvest the flower before they have a prospect to set seeded player .
On the other hand , bulb Florence fennel is treated as an annual vegetable . It is get for its swollen , bulging home , which has a sweet , anise - corresponding spirit . Bulb fennel does not regrow after harvesting because the bulb is the main edible part of the plant . Once the bulb has attain a worthy size , unremarkably about the size of a lawn tennis ball , it is quick to be harvested .
To harvest bulb Florence fennel , you’re able to gently loosen the ground around the base of the plant and carefully lift it out of the terra firma . Trim off the foliage , leave about an inch of stem attached to the bulb . The bulb can be used raw in salad , roast , grilled , or sautéed , providing a crunchy texture and distinct flavor to dishes .
It ’s deserving mention that while bulb fennel does not regrow after harvesting , it may grow pocket-sized secondary bulbs or shoot from the stem of the plant . These can be reap as well if trust , although they may not make the same size as the initial bulb .
In my personal experience , I have grown both plebeian fennel and bulb Florence fennel in my garden . Common finocchio has been a reliable perennial , regrow year after year with minimum care . I enjoy using the foliage in various recipe , and the plant add together a endearing texture and perfume to my garden .
Bulb common fennel , on the other paw , requires more aid and is treated as an one-year crop . I have ascertain that it originate best in cooler temperatures and well - drain stain . reap the electric-light bulb at the right size of it ensures the good tang and grain , and I have enjoyed experimenting with different culinary purpose for this versatile vegetable .
Fennel is a fantastic plus to any garden or kitchen . Whether you select to turn common fennel for its perennial nature or incandescent lamp common fennel for its edible bulb , both salmagundi propose a unequalled flavor and aroma that can elevate your culinary world .
Caroline Bates
