Common Giant Fennel, Giant anise fennel
Ferula communis
Family: Apiaceae
What it is like
A large herb which keeps growing from year to year. It grows 3 m high. It is very robust and has a pungent smell. The stems are stout and hollow. The leaves are divided 3-4 times. They have many bright green thread like lobes. These sheath the base. The upper leaves have smaller blades and larger sheaths. The flower umbels are large and rounded. They are bright yellow-green. The fruit are narrowly oval and flattened. They are 12-15 mm long. They have wings and resin canals.
Where it is found
It is a Mediterranean plant. It grows in grassy and waste places. It can be in sandy places or on cliffs. Hobart Botanical Gardens.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Algeria, Australia, Cyprus, East Africa, Ethiopia, Europe, France, Greece, Italy, Mediterranean, (country/location of origin) Morocco, North Africa, Portugal, Spain, Tasmania, Tunisia, Turkey, Türkiye
How it is used for food
The leaves are eaten. The unopened flower is steamed or cooked in the ashes. It is crushed and seasoned with olive oil and spices. It is also deep fried.
Edible parts
Leaves, vegetable, flowers
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Boubal, Dog, Freula, Inslal, Nugusa