Overview
Anethum graveolens is an erect annual herb in the carrot family (Apiaceae) reaching 24–48 inches (60–120 cm) tall with a 12–18 inch (30–45 cm) spread. Stems are erect, smooth, hollow, blue-green, with fine longitudinal ridges. Leaves are alternate, finely dissected into thread-like (filiform) segments, feathery, blue-green, strongly aromatic with a distinctive anise-like scent. Flowers are tiny, yellow, borne in compound umbels 4–8 inches (10–20 cm) across. Fruit (seed) is flattened, oval, 0.1–0.2 inch (3–5 mm) long, ribbed, strongly aromatic. Both foliage (dill weed) and seeds (dill seed) are used in cooking, with distinct flavor profiles — the foliage has a lighter, grassier flavor while the seeds are more pungent and warming. The taproot is slender and does not tolerate transplanting well; direct sowing is the standard method. Bolts rapidly in heat above 75°F (24°C). In the Pacific Northwest, successive sowings every 2–3 weeks extend the harvest of fresh foliage. A host plant for swallowtail butterfly larvae (Papilio species).
Native Range
Native to the Mediterranean and southwestern Asia, cultivated for at least 5,000 years. Grows in full sun in well-drained soil. Widely naturalized along roadsides and waste ground in temperate regions. In the Pacific Northwest, the cool spring and early summer conditions extend the leafy foliage stage before bolting.Suggested Uses
Used in herb gardens, kitchen gardens, and container plantings. Foliage (dill weed) is used fresh in fish dishes, salads, dips, and sauces. Seeds (dill seed) are used in pickling, bread, and spice blends. Planted as a beneficial insect attractant in vegetable gardens — the umbels host parasitic wasps and other biological control agents. A host plant for swallowtail butterfly larvae. Used in windowsill and balcony herb gardens in containers of 3+ gallons.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 4'
Width/Spread1' - 1'6"
Bloom Information
Flowers from June through August. Compound umbels bloom over 2–3 weeks. Pollinated by bees and beneficial insects. Seeds mature 2–3 weeks after flowering. Once the flower stalk elongates (bolting), the foliage flavor diminishes. Seed harvest occurs when the seeds turn brown and the umbel begins to dry.Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Blue-green, finely dissected into thread-like segments (filiform); feathery; aromaticGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Direct sow seeds 0.25 inch (6 mm) deep after the last frost date, spacing 12 inches (30 cm) apart. Successive sowings every 2–3 weeks extend the fresh foliage harvest through summer. In the Pacific Northwest, sow from April through July. Provide consistent moisture; drought stress triggers premature bolting. The slender taproot does not transplant well. Stake tall cultivars or plant in a sheltered location to prevent wind lodging. Harvest foliage (dill weed) before flowering for the strongest flavor. Allow some plants to flower and set seed for dill seed harvest and to attract beneficial insects.Pruning
Pinch growing tips to delay bolting and extend foliage harvest. Cut foliage stems as needed, leaving at least one-third of the plant. Cut entire seed heads when seeds are brown and dry, placing them upside down in a paper bag to catch falling seeds.Maintenance Level
lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 3 gallons