How to grow anise and harvest its seeds – this aromatic edimental will add whimsical charm to your yard

Anisum pimpinella in field.

Anise, scientifically known as Pimpinella anisum, is a dainty, flowering annual herb known for its signature sweet licorice scent. Originating in the Mediterranean region, the herb is often used in cuisines around the world today.

There are several different varieties of anise found in herb gardens, including the much treasured star anise native to China and Vietnam, which symbolises protection, luck and intuition. But the two main varieties of anise are green and brown Pimpinella anisum, and neither of them are particularly difficult to grow.