Not the plant you're looking for? Search over 300,000 plants
Annual Biennial

Ridolfia segetum
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

false fennel

An annual to 1.2m, with finely cut, aromatic foliage and tiny, bright yellow flowers carried in umbels to 15cm across. Makes a good cut flower

Other common names
goldspray
Buy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Apiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

A genus of annuals native to the Mediterranean with smooth, divided foliage and umbels of yellow flowers. The seeds and leaves contain essential oils and are edible both raw and cooked

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well drained soil in full sun. Plants may require support in exposed sites

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown under glass in early spring, or in situ in late spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Prairie planting
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.