Anise

Plant family

Umbellifers (Apiaceae)

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Moist

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

Low

Plant distance

20 cm

Row spacing

30 cm

Seeding depth

1 cm

Instructions

Description

Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is a species of the umbelliferae family (Apiaceae). Its seeds are used as a spice in cooking or in medicine. The annual, herbaceous plant reaches growth heights of up to 70 cm. Its white flowers bloom from June to September. From them ripen the fruits. These can be harvested from August to September.

Growing tips

The soil around the seedlings must be kept free of weeds and it can take up to 4 weeks for the seedlings to emerge. Aniseed is also a dark germinator, so plant it at least 1 cm deep in the soil. Weeds in the bed must be removed regularly. Thrives well in humus-rich, slightly calcareous and well-drained soil. It is a deep-rooter, the roots can grow up to 60 cm deep, so the soil should not be too firm. The seeds should only be harvested when the shells turn brown, as this is when their aroma is at its most pronounced. After harvesting, hang them upside down to dry and place a cloth underneath to catch the seeds. The essential oils of aniseed have a proven deterrent effect against aphids and the caterpillar of the cabbage white butterfly. Planting it next to endangered ornamental or crop plants can limit the damage caused by their feeding. Take a break from cultivation and do not plant after carrots or other umbellifers.