Star Anise plant overview - Licorice-like flavor and fragrance

Star anise is a spice obtained from the star-shaped, immature fruits of an Asian evergreen tree. As the name suggests, the spice has a flavor that is reminiscent of anise, or licorice. The seed pods are used whole to flavor beverages, including mulled wine, teas and infused vodka or gin. Star anise is widely used in Asian cuisine and is a traditional component of chai, Chinese 5-Spice andgaram masala seasoning blends. The aromatic pods or the ground spice are used in dried and simmering potpourri mixtures.