Fennel Sweet Florence Seeds

This variety grows to a height of 1-1.5m with a bright green, feathery foliage. If left unharvested or stressed by hot, dry weather, it produces yellow umbel flowers. The stem swells into an extraordinary white bulb-like structure.

The stems of Sweet Florence are aniseed-flavoured, while the foliage and stem are sweetly fragrant with a delicate aniseed flavour. It's versatile in the kitchen; the leaves can be used as a herb in fish dishes, and the stems and bulbs can be used raw in salads or braised as a vegetable.

Typically sown directly in the garden from late winter to early summer for a harvest from June to November. With successive sowings, a continuous harvest can be achieved. Seedlings should be thinned to 25-30cm apart, and as the stems swell, soil should be mounded around them to preserve whiteness and flavour.

It's an annual vegetable grown primarily for its bulbs, though its foliage and stems are also utilised.

Prefers a sunny location with fertile, moisture-retentive soil. Soil pH should be between 5.5 to 7.0 for optimal growth​.

Known for its excellent bolt resistance, making it suitable for sowing from late winter to mid-summer. The traditionality of this variety suggests a level of reliability and preference among growers.

Direct sowing is recommended in a well-prepared soil, at a depth of around 1cm. It’s crucial to avoid transplanting as Fennel Sweet Florence dislikes root disturbance. Regular watering is necessary until the plants are established, and it’s advisable to mound soil around swelling stems to maintain flavour and appearance​​.