Star Anise History and Uses: Illicium verum

Star anise is as recognizable by shape as by scent. The dried fruit of Illicium verum forms a woody star with a strong anise-like aroma. A single piece can perfume a small pot, so it is a spice to measure and retrieve rather than scatter freely through a finished dish. [1]

Origins, History, and Identity

Chinese star anise comes from a tree native to southern China and northern Vietnam. Its culinary history includes use in spice blends and fragrant savory dishes. It is unrelated to the herbaceous anise plant, Pimpinella anisum, despite the shared flavor association. Other Illicium species are not automatically suitable for eating. [1]

Culinary Uses and Flavor

Use a whole piece in a simmered dish when it can be removed, or a very small amount of ground spice when a smooth distribution is needed. Pair it with rice, fruit, or a broth on a first trial. Count the pieces and check for broken points before serving. A strong blend can hide its contribution, so begin with a simple recipe that lets you learn the flavor.

Traditional Uses and What the Evidence Means

Star anise has traditional herbal uses and has supplied a chemical starting material for pharmaceutical production. That does not mean the spice or a homemade tea is equivalent to an antiviral medicine. [1]

Japanese star anise, Illicium anisatum, is toxic. Use only food-grade Chinese star anise from a reputable source, and do not use star-anise tea as an infant remedy. Health Canada’s advisory explains the risks of mistaken identity and contaminated products. [2]

Growing and Harvesting

Illicium verum is a subtropical tree, so growing the spice requires a suitable climate or protected horticultural conditions. Do not harvest fruit from an ornamental Illicium simply because it resembles a star. Buy culinary star anise from a reliable food supplier. [1]

Buying and Storage

Buy a quantity you can use while its aroma is still appealing. Keep the container tightly closed in a cool, dark cupboard, and use a dry spoon when measuring. Label the purchase date. A faded aroma is a good reason to replace a spice rather than keep increasing the amount in a recipe.

Two Simple Recipes to Try

These original recipe suggestions are small, approachable ways to explore the flavor. They are culinary ideas, not medicinal preparations; adjust future batches to your taste.

Star-Anise Scented Rice

Serves 3–4; about 25 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small whole food-grade star anise
• 1¾ cups water or the amount specified on the rice package
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Method

1. Warm the oil over medium-low heat. Add the seasoning and stir for 20 seconds without allowing it to scorch.
2. Add the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a simmer, cover tightly, and reduce the heat to low.
3. Cook for the time on the rice package, usually 15–18 minutes. Remove from the heat and rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Remove whole pods or bark, then fluff with a fork.

Warm Apples with Star Anise

Serves 2; about 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 apples, cored and thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ of a whole food-grade star anise, in large pieces
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons water

Method

1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the apples, sugar, water, and seasoning.
2. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, then uncover and stir. Cook for another 5–8 minutes until the fruit is tender; add a splash of water if needed.
3. Remove any whole spices before serving. Spoon over oatmeal, pancakes, or yogurt. Taste the fruit before adding extra sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is star anise the same as aniseed?

No. One is a tree fruit and the other comes from a carrot-family annual. Their similar aromas do not make their forms or measures identical.

Can I use decorative stars sold for crafts?

No. A decorative product is not a food ingredient and may not even be the edible species.

Explore the Herb Library

Continue exploring our Herbs & Spices Educational Guide, or browse star anise in the Spirit of Wormwood store.

Have you grown this plant or encountered it in a favorite food tradition? Share your experience in the comments.

Sources and Further Reading

1. Kew — Illicium verum: botany and culinary uses
2. Health Canada — Chinese and Japanese star anise safety advisory (archived)

Featured image: Spirit of Wormwood herb-library illustration; a general library image, not a botanical identification photograph.