Fennel

Fennel/Huahaunga
Availability
Fennel is available from March through to August.
Storage and Handling
Store in the refrigerator. Handle all fresh produce with care and wash before eating.
History
Fennel has a long history and is one of the oldest cultivated plants. During medieval times, people hung fennel above doorways, as they believed it warded off roaming evil spirits. Early settlers in New Zealand introduced fennel and it now grows from North Cape to Bluff.
Facts
- Fennel is also called Florence Fennel
- Every part of fennel is edible from seed to root
- Fennel is classified as a herb, a vegetable and a spice
- The herb fennel is grown for leaves, which have a characteristic aniseed flavour and aroma
- An old gardening mantra suggested: "plant fennel near your kennel" to protect your pooch from fleas
Growing Facts
- Fennel is easy to grow and is attractive to bees
Nutrition Information
Fennel is a source of dietary fibre, folate, potassium and vitamin C.
You will find the full Nutrition Information Panel on the New Zealand Food Composition Data website. This website is owned jointly by Plant & Food Research and the Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health. This website holds the most comprehensive collection of high-quality nutrient data for New Zealand foods. The Database is managed and maintained by dedicated Plant & Food Research staff.