Sweet fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Sweet fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a perennial herb related to the carrot family. Originating from the Mediterranean, it is now widely used globally as a flavoring herb. Known for its sweet, aromatic, and anise-like flavor, sweet fennel features prominently in various culinary applications, including salads, soups, and seafood dishes. Additionally, it is a key ingredient in the production of absinthe. In natural settings, sweet fennel can become invasive, often classified as a noxious weed due to its ability to spread rapidly and outcompete native vegetation.