Fennel (Foeniculum Vulgare) is a perennial that flowers and also produces the fennel seeds that are used as a cooking spice. The root and stalk of fennel have a variety of culinary uses.  In medieval Europe Fennel seeds were chewed on church fasting days to suppress hunger and Fennel was used as a breath freshener. The flavor of Fennel is similar to Anise or Licorice.