How to Grow Anise Seeds

The flavor of anise seed is a mellower version of black licorice.

Anise (Pimpinella anisum L.), native to Egypt and the Mediterranean regions, is primarily used for its seed, which adds a mellow licorice flavor to oils, liqueurs, cakes, breads and candies. Widely grown for its medicinal properties, anise is used to treat ailments such as bronchitis and indigestion and acts as an expectorant, diuretic and promotes lactation in nursing mothers. Anise grows well in a variety of soils, reaching 1 to 2 feet in height, sprouting lacy, white flowers and parsley-shaped foliage.

Things You'll Need

• Anise seed
• Coarse sand
• Compost
• Garden tiller

Instructions

1. Find a planting location that offers well-draining soil and partial to full sunlight. University of Florida IFAS Extension notes that anise grows best in fertile, sandy loam.

2. Amend heavier clay soils with coarse sand and organic compost to create the best growing conditions. Spread a 2-inch layer of sand and organic compost over the growing site and work the amendments into the soil with a garden tiller.

3. Plant anise seeds directly in the garden at least two weeks after the last predicted frost for your location. Anise requires at least 120 frost-free days for successful growth.

4. Sow anise seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep, spaced 1 to 2 inches apart. Allow 12 to 24 inches between rows.

5. Thin seedlings out, either with scissors or by pulling the seedling up from the soil, after six weeks of growth, leaving 8 to 12 inches between each plant.

6. Water anise plants regularly, keeping soil consistently moist. When subjected to periods of dryness, anise plants turn brown and seed quality is reduced.

7. Harvest seeds by cutting off green seed heads and hanging them in a warm, dry location to finish maturing. Once seed heads are dried, shake the seeds into a bowl, clean away the chaff and place the cleaned seed in an airtight container for storage. Seeds are ready for harvest approximately one month after the flowers bloom.

Tips & Warnings

• Anise also grows well in containers.

• Harvest leaves as needed during the growing season.

• Seed harvest should be completed before the first expected frost of the season.

References

• West Virginia University Extension Service: Growing Herbs in the Home Garden: Anise (Pimpinella Anisum)
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Herbs in the Florida Garden
• Purdue Guide to Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Anise
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Anise -- Pimpinella Anisum L.
• Harvest to Table: How to Grow Anise