Anise

Anise (Pimpinella anisum), also known as aniseed, is an annual herbaceous plant in the Apiaceae family that produces oil-rich fruits that have a distinct licorice taste. Native to the Mediterranean and first cultivated in Egypt, Anise is now produced in Mexico, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Chile, Pakistan, and China. The aniseed can be used in cooking, potpourri, and herbal medicine.

Anise grows to 18 inches in height with bright green feather-like leaves and blooms with small white flowers and yields approximately two tablespoons of fruit per plant.

The fruit, frequently erroneously referred to as a seed, is most commonly used in flavored liqueurs such as ouzo and absinthe. It is also used to flavor breads, cakes, cookies, and candies.