Wenshan Star Anise

Wenshan Star Anise

　　Star anise (scientific name: Illicium verum), also known as anise, star aniseed, bay star anise, or simply "ba jiao" in Chinese, is a plant belonging to the genus Illicium of the family Schisandraceae (commonly referred to as the Illiciaceae or star anise family). Its dried fruit, also called star anise, is one of the spices commonly used in Chinese cuisine and cooking across Southeast Asia. It is produced by an evergreen tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall, thriving in warm, moist, semi-shaded environments. The trees are primarily found in southern mainland China. The fruits are harvested in autumn and winter and, once dried, turn a reddish-brown or yellowish-brown color. They have a sweet, aromatic fragrance and can be used whole or ground into powder.