How to Grow Anise
Pimpinella anisum
Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is an annual herb grown for its aromatic seeds, used in baking, liqueurs, and medicine. It needs a long, warm growing season of at least 120 frost-free days. Direct sow in full sun after the last frost — the taproot dislikes transplanting. Keep soil moist until established, then water moderately. Harvest seed heads when they turn grey-brown and dry them in paper bags. Young leaves are also edible in salads.
When to Start
Sow indoors 6 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors after frost risk has passed and soil reaches 15°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light liquid feed every 3-4 weeks. Avoid over-feeding which promotes foliage at the expense of seed production.
- Needs a long warm growing season (120 frost-free days) for seeds to ripen. Not star anise (Illicium verum), which is a tropical tree. Direct sow — the taproot resents disturbance.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 15°C+
- Germination temperature
- 15–25°C
- Direct sow
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 20 cm |
| Row spacing | 45 cm |
| Sow depth | 0.6 cm |
| Mature height | 60 cm |
| Mature spread | 25 cm |
Direct sow after last frost. Dislikes transplanting due to taproot — sow in final position.
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 15°C |
| Germination temperature | 15–25°C |
| Base growth temperature | 10°C |
| Min. daylength to start | 12h |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | long day |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Anise?
- Plant Anise 20cm apart with 45cm between rows.
- Is Anise frost hardy?
- Anise is classified as Half Hardy.
