Dill (Anethum graveolens)

Annual. Easily grown (the seeds keep badly and should be used as fresh as possible) but goes to seed rapidly and, if raised for its feathery foliage, should be sown several times during a season. The ancient Greeks admired it for its magical and medicinal qualities and it has often served to thwart witches’ curses.

Dill is used abundantly in northern European countries and, in particular, in Scandinavia for quantities of fish preparations. It is practically unknown in France and, when found, is often confused with fennel, which bears a strong physical resemblance to it.