What is the difference between Aniseed Illicium verum and Anise Pimpinella anisum?

Answer 1

Star Anise (Illicium verum), also called Chinese Star Anise, is native to native to China and Vietnam and Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is native to the eastern Mediterranean. They are closely related species with similar properties, with the main difference only being their geographical location and local customary usage.

Be very careful about the variety called Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum) because it has been reported to cause adverse, possibly harmful, effects if ingested.

In any case of using herbal remedies, it is best to consult with an expert.

Answer 2

Anise comes from the Pimpinella anisum, a flowering plant originating in the Eastern Mediterranean and Southeast Asia. In flavor it is remarkabley like liquorice, fennel or tarragon in taste.

Star Anise comes from the Illicium verum, a small evergreen tree originating in Southwest China. It is unrelated to the Anise above, but both contain anethole (which imparts the flavor of liquorice to both plants)