Which category does fennel belong to when classified as a botanical?

Fennel belongs to the category of herbs when classified botanically. This classification is based on the plant's characteristics and usage, as it is an aromatic plant that is typically cultivated for its flavorful seeds, leaves, and stalks.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is commonly used in cooking and herbal remedies, attributed to its complex flavor profile that includes both anise and licorice notes. In culinary contexts, the foliage and seeds are primarily used for added flavor, which solidifies its identity as an herb rather than fitting into the categories of bark, roots, or seed/bean.

In essence, categorizing fennel as an herb reflects its use and the parts of the plant that are actively utilized in gastronomy and herbalism rather than its structural or reproductive aspects that would align with other botanical classifications.