Whole Star Anise (Illicium verum)

Whole dried fruits of Illicium verum, Star Anise - the beautifully shaped eight-pointed star-shaped spice native to southern China. Star Anise has been a centerpiece of Chinese cooking for centuries and is one of the five spices in Chinese Five-Spice Powder. Despite the name, Star Anise is unrelated to the European Anise seed - both contain anethole (the licorice-flavor compound) but come from completely different plant families.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Illicium verum

Family

Schisandraceae

Native region

Southern China, northern Vietnam

Shape

Eight-pointed star (typical; can have 6-12 points)

Aromatic compound

Anethole (also in European anise and fennel)

Distinct from

European Anise (Pimpinella anisum, Apiaceae family - different plant)

Notable use

One of the five spices in Chinese Five-Spice Powder

Star Anise vs European Anise

Star Anise and European Anise are completely different plants in different botanical families that happen to share the same characteristic licorice-flavor compound (anethole). Star Anise (Illicium verum) is a star-shaped fruit from a Chinese tree in the Schisandraceae family. European Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is a small seed from a Mediterranean herb in the carrot family. They're largely interchangeable in cooking, though star anise has a more robust character.

How to Use Star Anise

Chinese cooking: whole stars added to braised meats, pho broth, red-cooked dishes, and Chinese Five-Spice Powder. Mulled drinks: a single star adds beautiful aroma to mulled wine, cider, or punch. Baking: ground star anise in cookies, breads, and holiday baking. Pickling brines: a star or two in the brine. The star shape is also decorative - works well in clear bottles of infused oils, vinegars, and liqueurs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Star Anise related to European Anise?
No; completely different plants in different families. Both contain anethole (the licorice-flavor compound) but come from different plants.

What dishes use Star Anise?
Chinese braised dishes, pho broth, Chinese Five-Spice Powder, mulled drinks, and baked goods.

Can I substitute Star Anise for European Anise?
Yes, generally interchangeable. Star Anise has a more robust character; use slightly less.

How many stars per recipe?
Whole stars are potent. 1-2 whole stars typically flavors a large pot of braised dish or 4-6 cups of mulled wine.

What is anethole?
The aromatic compound responsible for the licorice flavor of star anise, European anise, and fennel.

Is Japanese Star Anise the same?
No; Japanese Star Anise (Illicium anisatum) is a different species that is toxic - don't confuse them. Chinese Star Anise (Illicium verum) is the culinary variety.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.