Bronze Leaf Fennel

Bronze Leaf Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare purpureum) is a striking crimson-bronze, non-bulbing fennel grown for its feathery, flavorful foliage. It is slow to bolt and its leaves carry a sweet licorice flavor that brightens salads, coleslaw, and dressings, while the seeds can be chewed to freshen breath.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Foeniculum vulgare purpureum
• Type: Heirloom, non-GMO herb
• Foliage: Feathery, crimson-bronze
• Habit: Non-bulbing, slow to bolt
• Harvest: Leaves and seeds
• Sun: Full sun

Best for

• Fresh leaves in salads and coleslaw
• Salad dressings
• Ornamental herb borders
• Pollinator gardens
• Seeds as a breath freshener

How to grow

Sow in full sun in well-draining soil. This non-bulbing variety is slow to bolt, so you can harvest the bronze foliage over a long season. Let some flowers form to attract pollinators and to collect seeds.

Flavor profile

Sweet and licorice-like in the leaves, with aromatic seeds that carry the same anise note.

About MIgardener

MIgardener is a Michigan-based family seed company offering affordable heirloom and non-GMO seeds, with a mission to make home gardening accessible to everyone.