Carum carvi

Caraway or Wild Cumin is a melliferous plant, mainly cultivated for its slightly aniseed or lemony aromatic and medicinal seeds. Don't confuse it with common cumin!

Also known as Carum carvi, this hardy perennial with a short lifespan has an upright feathery, vibrant green foliage, highly divided, deciduous and 15cm (6in) long. From May to June, the 60cm (24in) tall flower spikes bear small white or pink flowers in 8cm (3in) umbels, which then produce aromatic seeds.

Carum Carvi thrives in all fresh, deep, well-drained soils in sunny locations. Add compost when planting. It does not like to be moved. It is only in the second year that it produces a flower spike. It can be grown in pots.

Caraway is renowned for its aromatic, digestive and antiseptic properties. The young foliage is edible and can be enjoyed in salads or soups. Harvest the seeds as soon as they start to turn brown and use them to flavour savoury or sweet dishes. Harvest roots and cook them in the same way as carrots.

Advice: Plant caraways near cabbage and peas to protect them, but not near fennel, wormwood or tomato plants.