Foeniculum vulgare
Family: Apiaceae
Herbaceous perennial. Native to central and western Europe, Mediterranean,
Abyssinia, South Africa and China. These drought-hardy plants will
grow anywhere, even in the gravel next to your driveway. The delicious
seed is best harvested while still green. Antiseptic, expectorant,
spasmolytic and carminative, it counter-effects the cramping caused by
taking laxatives. Gentle enough for babies -- specific for treating
colic; galactogogue, flavoring agent. Cultivation: Easy.
Direct seed in the spring. Germination takes about 14 days.
Thin plants to 2 feet apart. Grows to 5 feet tall.
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