This is a quick-growing, rather attractive annual Mediterranean herb in the parsley family, having finely divided leaves and clusters of small white or pink flowers. Cumin leaf has a new and unusual flavour but is rarely used in day-to-day cooking. Cumin seeds have a warm flavour, rather similar to caraway, and a strong, pungent aroma which added to dishes whole lends them a smoky note. They add a nutty and peppery flavour to chilli and other Mexican dishes as well playing an important role in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. To harvest your own, it is easy to grow fresh seed, which is far superior to old dried seed.