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 Umbel flowers are inflorescence that consists of a number of short flower stalks (called pedicels) which spread from a common point, somewhat like umbrella ribs. The word was coined in botany in the 1590s, from Latin umbella "parasol, sunshade |
Plants in this family include: ajwain, angelica, anise, asafoetida, caraway, carrot, celery, chervil, coriander,
cumin, dill, fennel, hemlock, lovage, cow parsley, parsley, parsnip and sea holly.
cumin, dill, fennel, hemlock, lovage, cow parsley, parsley, parsnip and sea holly.
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Fennel with umbrella-shaped, summer flowers
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Fennel loves our winter climate. I grow it in our backyard in a somewhat protected area. I participated in a class at Central Market to expand my repertoire of salad offerings. So, having never used fresh fennel, I was intrigued. Fennel is a member of the family Apiaceae, which also includes dill, cumin, coriander, caraway and parsley. It is grown for its feathery foliage, which is used fresh; for its bulbous root and stalks, which can be used raw or cooked; and for its dried seeds, which are used to flavor savory Mediterranean dishes.
After reading a herbal break down on fennel one would begin to believe it is a medicinal miracle food. I tend to serve a broad spectrum of seasonal vegetables with herbs with a philosophy of balance with an assortment for a healthy diet.
Below is a 16th century botanical plate found in "Discourses", a book compiled by Mattioli. It has a fascinating history. Initially, belonging to a convent in Casteldurante. it now resides in the Alessandrina Library of Rome where it currently holds a very specific shelf tag of, Rari 278.
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The variegated form is grown as an ornamental plant, throughout the mid-west.
It is considered invasive but is used by homeowners to add a "groundcover type plant" to areas difficult to populate or dark areas underneath trees.
It is considered invasive but is used by homeowners to add a "groundcover type plant" to areas difficult to populate or dark areas underneath trees.
Illustration from Otto Wilhelm Thomé
Flora von Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz
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Grassroots Horticulture
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