Bronze Fennel 'Smokey' is a versatile plant for both flower and herb gardens. The dark, feathery foliage makes a lovely backdrop for tall, brightly colored flowers like hollyhock or Lychnis chalcedonica .
Bronze fennel foliage makes a good filler in cut flower arrangements. The yellow umbel flowers attract butterflies and beneficial insects . Bronze fennel is a host plant for black swallowtail butterflies.
The entire plant is edible. The anise-flavored leaves can be added to salads, vegetables, fish and egg dishes. Ground fennel seeds are delicious in sausages and curries. The leaves and seeds make a soothing tea for digestion. It also has many other health benefits .
Smokey bronze fennel is hardy in zones 4-10. Deer resistant. Self sows.