Type
bulbing fennel, heirloom
Fennel variety
Florence Fennel
The traditional bulbing fennel type, often listed simply as Florence fennel, with white crisp bulbs and feathery tops. It is the classic standard for home gardens.
Days to maturity
80-90
Best for
traditional kitchen use, fall crops
About Florence
Florence is the standard bulbing fennel type, grown for its pale, swollen leaf bases and mild anise flavor. Open-pollinated strains are usually sweet and useful, but they can bolt more readily than modern hybrids if stressed.
Growing Florence Fennel
For most home gardens, direct sow or transplant for a fall crop, because cool shortening days help bulbs stay solid and reduce bolting. Keep moisture even and hill a little soil around the base if you want a blanched bulb, then harvest once the bulb is firm and tennis-ball sized or a bit larger.
Full growing guide
For planting dates, care, and harvest that apply to all fennel, see the complete guide.
How to grow FennelOther fennel varieties
Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; performance varies by climate, soil, and season. Seed and plant availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.