Fennel Sweet Florence

Fennel 'Sweet Florence' (Foeniculum vulgare var. azoricum) is a highly prized biennial or annual herb, cultivated primarily for its distinctive swollen, bulb-like base, which has a crisp texture and a delicate, sweet anise flavour. Unlike the bronze or wild fennel varieties, 'Sweet Florence' is specifically bred for this edible "bulb," making it a versatile vegetable in the kitchen. In South Africa and globally, it is enjoyed both raw, thinly sliced in salads for a refreshing crunch, and cooked, where its flavour mellows and sweetens when roasted, grilled, braised, or sautéed. Its feathery green fronds can also be used as a garnish or chopped into dishes for a subtle flavour, while the seeds, though less prominent than the bulb, offer a stronger anise note for flavouring.