Heirloom Herb. Florence Fennel seeds produce a plant with a swollen, bulbous base that has a pleasing anise-like flavour. It is absolutely superb when used raw in salads or cooked in chicken dishes. Above the bulbous root, lacy carrot-like foliage grows to about 75 cm (2.5′) high. Interestingly, many gardeners report that their younger children really appreciate fennel’s irresistible aroma and taste. Some gardeners also report that fennel seems to inhibit bean and tomato growth if roots of these plants intermingle. Fennel, like dill, also attracts a range of beneficial insects to the garden.