Ferula communis
giant fennel
A robust perennial with large leaves divided into many slender segments, and branched stems bearing many rounded umbels of small yellow flowers in early summer
Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Ferula are striking, large tap-rooted herbaceous perennials with big, pinnately divided leaves and compound umbels of small white, yellow or purple flowers; may die after flowering
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mediterranean
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun; protect with a dry, bracken mulch in winter. May die after seeding.
Propagation
Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe. Prick out seedlings into deep pots to allow tap root to develop
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Architectural
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
To enhance foliage, remove flowering stems as soon as they appear or after blooming if seed is not required
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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