Ferula is also known as the Giant Fennel, though it shouldn't be confused with the culinary Fennel, Foeniculum. These vigorous-growing perennials are found wild in rough, rocky ground of the Mediterranean region. These plants are mainly grown for their interesting and attractive foliage. Ferula communis grows 6 to7 feet high with a spread of 2 or 3 feet. Its rich green leaves are large and finely cut into very thin, linear sections. The tiny, yellow flowers are produced in rounded umbels on long, stout, branched stalks, from late spring to summer. Other varieties will be mentioned below; they all bear yellow flowers. Asafetida, an oleo-gum-resin, is the product of Ferula Asafoetida, Ferula Narthex, and possibly other kinds. The thick, fleshy roots secrete a resinous substance when they are cut or wounded. This is used in medicine as a stimulant, antispasmodic, and expectorant, but is disagreeable to take. Roots of Ferula Sumbul are also used in medicine for similar purposes under the names of Sumbul and Muskroot.

Grow Giant Fennels in any well-drained soil, in full sun. These plants might die after blooming. They are very pretty planted in the wild garden or by the side of a pond.

Seeds may be sown when they are ripe.

Ferula communis;
Ferula glauca;
Ferula tingitana;
Ferula Asafoetida;
Ferula Narthex;
Ferula Sumbul.