Grow Anise herbs from fresh Pimpinella anisum herb seeds. Anise is a flowering plant that is native to the midwest. It’s leaves, stems are aromatic and its flavor resembles that of licorice, Fennel or Tarragon. Although the leaves of Anise herbs can be used to garnish dishes, its the seeds that are mainly sought after. They can be crushed up to be used as a spice in many cheeses and pastries as well.
Anise herb also has a few medicinal uses. The Romans and Greeks would most commonly use Anise to freshen their breath, or use it as a coughing remedy as well. Grown as an annual herb, the Anise herb will establish quickly, flower and grow up until the first frost.
Quick Facts
- Type: Herb
- Season: Annual
- Heirloom: Yes
- Color: White
- Height: 12″ – 18″ Tall
- Width: 12″ to 24″ Spread
- Harvest: 130 days to seed
- Uses: Medicinal & Culinary
- Environment: Full sun
Sowing The Seed
Anise herb seeds can be sown indoors, or directly outdoors. If started indoors, sow in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost at a depth of 1/4″ under topsoil. Transplant entire pots into the garden, or direct sow outdoors when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed.
Growing Conditions
Anise herbs will thrive in an area of full sunlight for the majority of the day. They prefer a temperature of at least 68F and can adapt to many conditions. Anise is best sown in a medium that is fertile to loamy, just make sure that the sowing medium is well drained. To increase drainage, we recommend adding a light compost to areas containing hard, compact soil. Water daily with a spray bottle or mist setting until germination has occurred.
Germination & Growth
Anise herb seeds will typically germinate within 7 to 14 days after sowing. The plants can grow to a mature height of roughly 12 to 18 inches tall and can be spaced about 12 inches apart from one another. Harvest the leaves for salads. The seeds and oils from these versatile herbs are also useful for flavoring fruit dishes, cheeses and pastries.