Fennel

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(Foeniculum vulgare)

With an anise-like flavor fennel can be used to add lots of flavor to recipes. The bulbs and stalks can also be eaten raw like celery. Italian and other ethnic foods utilize this delicious herb for stand-out dishes. The leaves can also be be used in sauces, soups, and herbal teas. Aside from its well known culinary uses, growing fennel is like rolling out a welcome mat for beneficial insects. It’s known as being an insectory plant that attracts beneficial bugs, such as ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies. It’s also a favorite host plant for swallowtail butterflies caterpillars. It’s well worth growing in your garden.Grows 3-5′ tall and prefers full sun.  While it is considered a perennial in our zone it’s best grown as an annual. Self seeds.