Common fennel is a member of the parsley family and has leaves similar in appearance to dill. It is grown from seed in well-drained soil and full sun. It should be sown from early spring to late summer.

Fennel does well in low rainfall conditions once it is established. Harvesting can commence when the plant is 6 inches (15 cms) high. The top 2 inches (5 cms) may be picked.

The leaves will stay fresh for a week with the stems in water.

Harvest the seeds in late summer as soon as they ripen. Remove the heads as soon as they begin turning brown. Dry the seeds in a paper bag until they dry, then store in a dry, dark location for about 6 months.