Fennel - First Time Growing

This is my first attempt at growing fennel, not very familiar with this herb. I know that it is used to attract butterflies, which is what I'd like to do, but I'd also like to use as a herb for cooking. Is there any special care or pruning that need to be done to keep it growing. Anyone have any culinary tips. Thank you.

I am told that it doesnt like being crowded by other veggies, - Drainage is good and a bit of afternoon shade if possible. That said - it behaves a lot like dill for me. Yes the butterflies that like it are Swallowtails- (yellow n black variety) will head out like a dill so also in flower attracts bees. There are several kinds- good luck

I haven't found any special care necessary.

If you want to prune some foliage off for eating, it won't hurt the plant.

When the caterpillars strip the plant it doesn't hurt it either.

I actually had one eclose on the fennel and was fascinated to watch it.

Thanks for the info. I can't wait to see how it grow. Dorothy