Pimpinella anisum aka Anise Burnet Saxifrage

Pimpinella anisum, or anise, is an annual herb in the parsley family. It grows upright, with branched stems and a bushy shape. Sources differ on its place of origin. NC State names Egypt and the Middle East. Useful Tropical Plants gives Greece as its range. Its long history in gardens makes its wild range unclear. PFAF reports no known truly wild habitat.

Plants often reach 1.3–2 feet [0.4–0.6 metres] in height. RHS gives a broader garden range of 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. Spread reaches about 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. The green leaves release scent when crushed. Lower leaves are simple, with long stalks and lobed edges. Leaves higher on the stems have shorter stalks and fine divisions. This gives the upper growth a fern-like look. NC State notes hairs on the leaves but no stem scent.

Small white flowers form broad, rounded heads during summer. Insects pollinate them, and the plant is also self-fertile. The fruits hold the seeds used as a spice. NC State describes oval to pear-shaped fruits that turn brown. The leaves and seeds have a sweet, liquorice-like taste. Young leaves suit salads, soups, and other dishes, raw or cooked. Seeds flavour bread, cakes, pastries, and fruit dishes. Their oil also provides flavouring for food.

Grow anise in full sun and fertile soil that drains well. RHS favours moist loam and accepts acid, neutral, or alkaline soils. Sow seeds where plants will grow once frost risk passes. Root disturbance can cause losses when moving young plants. In short seasons, start seeds under glass in separate pots. Seed crops need a growing season of five to six months. Stakes may help keep the seed heads above the ground. No pruning is needed. RHS rates it H3; PFAF lists USDA zones 7–10.

Anise suits herb beds and patio pots. Its scent also lends itself to dried scent mixes. Seed oil has uses in perfume, soap, and toothpaste. Herbal traditions use the seeds for digestive and breathing complaints. These uses do not establish medical benefit. PFAF reports no known hazards, but gives no pet-specific safety finding. RHS lists aphids, slugs, snails, and mice as possible pests. Powdery mildew and downy mildew can also affect plants.