Start growing
Direct sow in spring once soil is warm. Does not transplant well due to a long taproot.
GROW SOMETHING WONDERFUL
Anise
Pimpinella anisum
Your guide to planting, growing, and getting to know this plant.
THE PLANT NOTEBOOK
Anise care, from seed onward.
- Botanical name
- Pimpinella anisum
- Common names
- Aniseed
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Genus
- Pimpinella
- Species
- P. anisum
Growing with your kit
The Seeds In A Cup® clear planter is perfect for monitoring the Anise taproot as it develops before being moved to its permanent garden spot.
Propagation
By seed.
Seasonal growth & harvest
Harvest seeds once the umbels turn brown and seeds are gray-green.
Growing conditions
Dry, sunny plains with light, well-drained soil.
Weather & tolerances
High drought tolerance once established; sensitive to frost.
Pests & plant health
Aphids and leaf spot.
Plant safety
Safe for consumption; highly aromatic.
Botanical features
An annual herb growing to 1 meter. Features feathery leaves and white umbrella-like flower clusters (umbels).
Varieties
Standard garden anise.
Garden & everyday uses
Seeds used in baking and flavoring liqueurs (Ouzo, Absinthe). Leaves used in salads
Native range & distribution
Native to the Eastern Mediterranean and Southwest Asia.
Conservation
Secure.
Name origins
From the Greek ‘anison’, referring to the herb’s aromatic seeds.
History
Used by ancient Egyptians for medicine and by Romans as a digestive spice after feasts.
