What is Star Anise, Whole?

Star Anise is the whole dried fruit of Illicium verum, a tree in the family Schisandraceae. Each fruit forms the distinctive eight-pointed star that gives the spice its name. Like European anise, it owes its licorice-like aroma to anethole, though the two come from completely different plant families.

About the plant

Star Anise is native to southern China and northern Vietnam and has been a centerpiece of Chinese cooking for centuries. It is one of the components of Chinese five-spice powder and a common aromatic in braised dishes and pho broth. The striking star shape also makes it a decorative choice in clear bottles of infused oil, vinegar, or spirits.

Related herbs

• Anise Seed Powder — the unrelated Mediterranean herb with a similar flavor.

Star Anise, Whole: form & sizes

We carry Star Anise, Whole as whole dried star-shaped fruits, sold by weight in sizes from 1 oz to 1 lb. We make no health or therapeutic claims.

Storage

Store Star Anise, Whole in an airtight container, away from heat, light, and humidity, to preserve its color and aroma.

Star Anise, Whole at a glance

Botanical name

Illicium verum

Family

Schisandraceae

Native region

southern China and northern Vietnam

Plant part

dried fruit

Notable use

One of the five spices in Chinese five-spice powder

Form

whole dried star-shaped fruits

Sizes

1 oz to 1 lb