Japanese name: ディル Scientific name:Anethum graveolens
[Overview]
An annual about 30–50 cm tall.
The leaves are alternate and 3–4 times pinnately compound, divided into thread-like segments.
The flowers are yellow with 5 petals, and many are borne in compound umbels about 15 cm across at the stem tips.
The inflorescence lacks both involucels and an involucre, and the inward-curving petals fall early.
The fruit is a schizocarp, flat and elliptic, and separates easily.
[History]
It has been cultivated since at least the 4th century BC.
[Uses]
It has a fragrance similar to fennel, and is used in fish dishes and similar; the fruits and leaves are used to flavor soups and salads.
Dill water is said to have been given to infants as a remedy for gas.
[Cultivation]
It prefers fertile, well-drained, sunny soil.
Propagate from seed.
