Fennel is a flowering plant species in the carrot family. It is a hardy, perennial herb with yellow flowers and feathery leaves. It is indigenous to the shores of the Mediterranean but has become widely naturalized in many parts of the world, ​especially on dry soils near the sea-coast and on riverbanks.

Fennel seeds have a recognizable long, thing shape and are pale green or brown in color. They give a sweet licorice-like taste and scent to curries, stews, bread, desserts, and beverages.

In some parts of the world, people chew plain or sugar-coated fennel seeds after a meal. Chewing fennel seeds is thought to help aid digestion and prevent gas.