Fennel is a versatile and flavorful herb that can be used in a variety of culinary dishes. It comes in two main varieties: common fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) and bulb fennel (Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce). The growth habit of these two types of 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 heights of up to 6 feet. Common fennel is primarily grown for its aromatic foliage, which can be used in salads, soups, and fish dishes. It also produces small yellow flowers that attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
When harvesting common fennel, you can cut the foliage down to ground level, leaving a few inches of stem. This will encourage new growth to emerge from the base of the plant. However, it’s important to note that common fennel can become invasive in some areas, spreading through its prolific seed production. So, if you want to prevent self-seeding and maintain control over the plant, it’s a good idea to harvest the flowers before they have a chance to set seed.
On the other hand, bulb fennel is treated as an annual vegetable. It is grown for its swollen, bulbous base, which has a sweet, anise-like flavor. Bulb fennel does not regrow after harvesting because the bulb is the main edible part of the plant. Once the bulb has reached a desirable size, usually about the size of a tennis ball, it is ready to be harvested.
To harvest bulb fennel, you can gently loosen the soil around the base of the plant and carefully lift it out of the ground. Trim off the foliage, leaving about an inch of stem attached to the bulb. The bulb can be used raw in salads, roasted, grilled, or sautéed, providing a crunchy texture and distinct flavor to dishes.
It’s worth mentioning that while bulb fennel does not regrow after harvesting, it may produce smaller secondary bulbs or shoots from the base of the plant. These can be harvested as well if desired, although they may not reach the same size as the initial bulb.
In my personal experience, I have grown both common fennel and bulb fennel in my garden. Common fennel has been a reliable perennial, regrowing year after year with minimal care. I enjoy using the foliage in various recipes, and the plant adds a lovely texture and fragrance to my garden.
Bulb fennel, on the other hand, requires more attention and is treated as an annual crop. I have found that it grows best in cooler temperatures and well-drained soil. Harvesting the bulbs at the right size ensures the best flavor and texture, and I have enjoyed experimenting with different culinary uses for this versatile vegetable.
Fennel is a wonderful addition to any garden or kitchen. Whether you choose to grow common fennel for its perennial nature or bulb fennel for its edible bulb, both varieties offer a unique flavor and aroma that can elevate your culinary creations.
