Fennel - Bronze Foeniculum vulgare var. rubrum

Common Name:
Bronze Fennel

Description:
Bronze Fennel is a striking, ornamental and culinary herb valued for its fine, feathery foliage in rich bronze to purplish tones. This elegant perennial adds height, texture, and colour contrast to garden beds while also offering a sweet aniseed flavour that can be used in a variety of culinary dishes. During summer, it produces airy clusters of small yellow flowers held above the foliage, attracting bees and beneficial insects. Well-suited to Melbourne’s climate, Bronze Fennel thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating dry conditions once established. It is a vigorous grower that benefits from occasional pruning to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth. Its tall, soft structure makes it ideal as a backdrop planting or feature within herb and cottage gardens.

Form:
Shrub - Large

Mature Size:
Height: 1.5–2 m
Width: 0.6–1 m

Aspect:
Full Sun

Flowering:
Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:
Yellow

Key Attributes:
Bee Attracting
Culinary herb
Drought Tolerant
Feathery foliage
Herbaceous
Perennial
Self-seeding
Suitable for Pots

Toxicity:
Generally considered safe for human consumption; may cause mild skin sensitivity in some individuals. Use caution with pets if consumed in large quantities.

Companion Plants:
Dill
Coriander
Lettuce
Cabbage
Onion