Fennel, with its pale green colour and pleasant, aromatic aroma is said to symbolize flattery and to be an emblem of heroism.

Most fennel originated in India, Egypt and China. It is one of the earliest known herbs and was often called the “meetin’ seed”.

It was nibbled in church to curb the appetite or quiet a restless child.

Chewing fennel stalks was regarded by the ancient Romans as a means of controlling obesity. I might try it for my expanding waistline....

In Medieval times, fennel was hung from the rafters to bring good luck, and put in keyholes to keep out ghosts and evil spirits