Florence fennel, a wonderfully ornamental vegetable, grown for both its swollen leaf bases or bulbs and edible leaves. It has a sweet anise-like flavor. Florence fennel is versatile: Braise or steam it then serve with fish or pork; deep-fry it in light tempura batter; try it sliced with a mandolin with shaved Parmesan, or chopped as a crudité to dip in hummus or simply added to a salad.