Fennel (Florence)

Florence Fennel - Grown and used like celery but with a strong, anise-like flavor. The bulb at the base must be heaped up with soil to blanch. Use base cooked or raw in salads. Seeds are used to flavor pastries, sauces, and soups. Tender young top leaves combine well in cheese and fish dishes. Stalks, leaves, and seeds may be combined to make tea. Seeds should be allowed to partially dry on the plant. Deters slugs. Prefers a dry, sunny location. Do not plant near dill or coriander. Maturity: 90 days Habit: Annual Preservation: Seeds, dry