Content
Fennel and dill are spicy and aromatic plants, the upper above-ground parts of which are very similar in appearance. This is what often misleads many people. They are sure that these are just different names for the same garden crop, but this is not at all true. Dill and fennel, the difference between which is not visible at first glance, are still different representatives of the Umbrella family. This article will help you understand all the differences.
How does fennel differ from regular dill in appearance?
You can understand the difference between dill and fennel by studying the photo, description and main characteristics of these plants. Most often, these herbs can be easily confused by their external signs when sowing and at an early age. Visually they are similar in the following ways:
- pinnately dissected leaf shape;
- multiple inflorescences collected in double umbrellas;
- yellow flowers;
- The height of adult plants is from 1 to 2 m.
Significant external differences between fennel and dill can be noticed upon closer examination of the plants.
Signs | Dill | Fennel |
Bush height | 40-150 cm | 90-200 cm |
Stem
| Straight or slightly branched | Heavily branched. The lower branches are located on the petioles |
Leaves | Green, sometimes with a bluish tint | They are located close to each other and fluffy. Have a bluish tint |
Flower shape | Cushion-shaped |
|
Root | Thin and long, hard | Meaty, large |
According to the composition and content of vitamins
The leaves, rhizomes and seeds of fennel contain many of the following beneficial substances:
- fatty acid;
- vitamins (A, B, D, E and K);
- phytosterols;
- minerals (iron, calcium, copper and manganese).
The main beneficial substances in dill are:
- vitamins (riboflavin – B2, ascorbic acid – C, nicotinic acid – PP);
- essential oils;
- carotene;
- flavonoids;
- mineral salts;
- folic acid;
- trace elements (potassium, zinc, copper, calcium and manganese).
By smell and taste
Fennel and dill have completely different tastes and smells. The difference is that the aroma of fennel is pleasant, sweetish, with a slight bitterness and pronounced notes of anise, tarragon and menthol mint. While the smell of dill is easily recognizable, which is difficult to confuse with any other - fresh and rich.
Difference between dill and fennel seeds
The differences between plant seeds are presented in the table:
Seeds | |
Dill | fennel |
Round in shape, small in size (length - 3-5 mm, width -1.5-3 mm). They have a characteristic, pronounced aroma. | Elongated, quite large in size (length about 10 mm, width - 3 mm). Divided into 2 halves. |
Fennel and dill: the difference in cultivation
Often, difficulties with cultivation arise from those gardeners who believe that fennel and dill are the same plant. But this is an erroneous opinion, since there is a difference, and each of them has its own varietal characteristics and characteristics.
Fennel is a rather whimsical spicy crop. Plants need to create favorable and comfortable conditions. For seed germination, further growth and full development, fennel must be provided with:
- warm;
- calcareous soil;
- abundant and regular watering;
- loosening;
- hilling;
- free space.
Fennel is a heat-loving plant, so it is preferable to grow it outdoors in the southern regions. In mid-latitudes, it is recommended to grow this herb in greenhouses or seedlings.
Dill is a completely unpretentious crop that can grow throughout the garden like a weed. It doesn’t even require a separate bed – the bushes feel comfortable between the rows of other crops. Dill can grow in shaded areas and tolerates light frosts. A good harvest (even several times during the season) can be obtained without using any special agrotechnical care techniques.
What is the difference between the beneficial properties of fennel and dill?
Despite their external similarity, fennel and dill differ in their chemical composition.Both plants are used in medicine, but these herbs have different effects on the human body.
Dill has a diuretic effect and has a positive effect on the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Herbal infusion promotes:
- increased intestinal motility;
- stimulation of gastric juice production;
- eliminating flatulence;
- lowering blood pressure;
- increasing lactation;
- reducing increased excitability.
Dill is used to treat diseases:
- cardiovascular system (angina pectoris, arrhythmia, heart failure, hypertension);
- genitourinary system (cystitis, sand and kidney stones);
- nervous system (neuroses, insomnia, depression);
- digestive system (pancreatitis, spasms, lack of appetite);
- dermatological (allergic skin rashes).
Among the main beneficial properties of fennel are expectorant, sedative and antispasmodic effects. The presence of a large number of active biological components allows this culture to be used for the treatment of diseases:
- Gastrointestinal tract (atony, bloating, constipation, colic in children);
- respiratory system (bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma);
- gallbladder and biliary tract (cholecystitis, inflammation of the bile ducts);
- kidney (stone disease);
- genitourinary system (inflammation of the ureters and genitourinary tract);
- metabolic (obesity, high cholesterol);
- skin (acne, acne).
The well-known “dill water” is made from fennel seeds, which is considered the most common remedy for combating colic in babies. Its essential oil is one of the main components of the licorice elixir, which has an antitussive effect.
Use in cooking
Fennel is used almost exclusively in cooking. The fruits and fresh leaves are eaten as a spicy seasoning - added raw to hot first courses and salads. Stewed fennel rhizome perfectly complements and emphasizes the taste of fish and meat dishes. Stems and inflorescences (umbrellas) are used for preservation. Fennel oil is added to main dishes, canned vegetables, baked goods (even bread).
Dill is used in almost all culinary directions. These are first and second courses (hot and cold), appetizers and salads, canned food. In each of these dishes, dill is an indispensable ingredient that makes their taste bright and rich. Adding dill seeds to pickles and marinades not only flavors dishes, but also prevents them from spoiling.
Which is better: fennel or dill?
Despite the significant difference between dill and fennel, they also have an undeniable similarity - both plants are excellent healers, bringing great benefits to the human body. It is quite difficult to say with certainty that one herb is much more beneficial than another. We can only say for certain that fennel and dill should be included in the diet, but in reasonable quantities, like any healthy product.
Conclusion
Fennel and dill - there is a difference between them, and it is quite obvious, so learning to distinguish these two plants is necessary. This will help to use them correctly both in the preparation of culinary recipes and in treatment. It is easy to grow these useful herbs in your garden plot; the main thing is to take into account their individual agrotechnical characteristics.
