Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) seeds, macro shot. As well as its culinary use, Fennel is also commonly used to treat complaints such as indigestion, stomach pains, kidney stones and cystitis. A seed contains an embryo (a fertilised ovule from which a new plant can grow), and a supply of food. Seed shapes and surface textures vary widely, affecting how they are dispersed from their parent plant. Magnification: x7 when printed 10 centimetres wide.