Bronze Fennel

Lacy foliage is anise scented and the flowers are used as a sweet garnish. The seeds are used as a seasoning in baked goods, soups and stews and relishes. The perennial plants will reach 6 feet during the growing season and are one of the first to poke out when the snow melts. Will self-seed readily, and you will get flower heads the first year. This is also a magnet for Swallowtail butterfies who lay their eggs on the plants. I always plant enough for them as well. 40 or more seeds per packet will spread to fill an entire area.