Contents
Fennel and dill are spicy-aromatic plants, the upper aerial parts of which are outwardly very similar to each other. This is what often confuses many people. They are sure that these are just different names for the same garden crop, but this is not at all the case. Dill and fennel, the difference between which is not visible at first glance, are still different representatives of the Umbelliferae family. This article will help you understand all the differences.
What is the difference between fennel and ordinary 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 spicy herbs can be easily confused by external signs when sowing and at an early age. Visually, they are similar in the following ways:
- pinnately dissected form of leaves;
- multiple inflorescences collected in double umbrellas;
- yellow flowers;
- height of mature plants from 1 to 2 m.
Significant external differences between fennel and dill can be seen upon closer examination of the plants.
Evidence | Dill | Fennel |
Height of bush | 40-150 see | 90-200 see |
Stem
| Straight or slightly branched | Strongly branched. The lower branches are located on the petioles |
Leaves | Green, sometimes with a bluish tinge | They are located close to each other and push. Have a bluish tint |
Flower shape | Cushion |
|
Root | Thin and long, hard | Meaty, large |
According to the composition and content of vitamins
The leaves, rhizome and seeds of fennel contain many of these beneficial substances:
- fatty acid;
- vitamins (A, B, D, E and K);
- phytosterols;
- minerals (iron, calcium, copper and manganese).
The main beneficial substances in the composition of 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 a completely different taste and smell. The difference lies in the fact that the aroma of fennel is pleasant, sweetish, with a slight bitterness and pronounced notes of anise, tarragon and menthol mint. Whereas the smell of dill is easily recognizable, which is difficult to confuse with any other – fresh and rich.
The difference between dill and fennel seeds
The difference between plant seeds is presented in the table:
seed | |
dill | Fennel |
Round shape, small size (length – 3-5 mm, width -1,5-3 mm). They have a characteristic, pronounced aroma. | Elongated, rather large in size (length about 10 mm, width – 3 mm). Divided into 2 halves. |
Fennel and dill: the difference in cultivation
Often, growing difficulties arise for 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 features.
Fennel is a rather whimsical spicy culture. Plants need to create favorable and comfortable conditions. For seed germination, further growth and full development of fennel, it is necessary to provide:
- heat;
- lime 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 spicy herb in greenhouses or seedlings.
Dill is a completely unpretentious crop that can grow throughout the garden, like a weed. He does not even need a separate bed – the bushes feel comfortable in the aisles of other crops. Dill can grow in shady areas and tolerates light frosts. A good harvest (even repeatedly during the season) can be obtained without using any special agrotechnical care practices.
What is the difference between the beneficial properties of fennel and dill
Despite their superficial similarity, fennel and dill differ in 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 the production of gastric juice;
- elimination of flatulence;
- lowering blood pressure;
- increased lactation;
- decrease in hyperexcitability.
Dill is used in the treatment of diseases:
- cardiovascular system (angina pectoris, arrhythmia, heart failure, hypertension);
- genitourinary system (cystitis, sand and kidney stones);
- nervous system (neurosis, insomnia, depression);
- digestive system (pancreatitis, spasms, lack of appetite);
- dermatological (allergic skin rashes).
Among the main beneficial properties of fennel, expectorant, sedative and antispasmodic effects can be distinguished. The presence in the composition of a large number of active biological components allows the use of this culture 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);
- kidneys (stone disease);
- genitourinary system (inflammation of the ureters and urinary tract);
- metabolic (obesity, high cholesterol);
- skin (acne, acne).
Fennel seeds are used to make the well-known “dill water”, which is considered the most common remedy for combating colic in infants. Its essential oil is one of the main components of the licorice elixir, which has an antitussive effect.
Cooking application
Fennel in cooking is used almost completely. Fruits and fresh leaves are eaten as a spicy seasoning – they are 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, pastries (even bread).
Dill is used in almost all culinary directions. These are the first and second courses (hot and cold), appetizers and salads, preservation. 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 that bring great benefits to the human body. It is quite difficult to say with certainty that one herb is much more useful than another. We can only say unequivocally that both 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 between 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 backyard, the main thing is to take into account their individual agrotechnical features.