Anethum graveolens, or dill, is a versatile herb commonly used in culinary applications around the world. Its fragrant, finely divided leaves are used in a variety of dishes including salads, soups, and pickles. The leaves are best used raw or added to cooked dishes just a few minutes before completion to preserve their flavor. In addition to its leaves, dill seed is also used as a spice for flavoring food.
Dill is an annual herb that grows up to 16-24 inches. The seeds of dill are longitudinally ridged and straight to slightly curved, measuring about 0.25 in long and 1 mm thick.
Dill is also known for its essential oil extracted from its leaves, stems, and seeds. In addition to its culinary use, dill oil is used in the manufacturing of soaps.