Anise is native to the eastern Mediterranean and is one of the oldest known spice plants, long valued for both culinary and medicinal uses thanks to its sweet, aromatic liquorice-like flavour. The Romans were particularly fond of anise-spiced cakes, which they served after heavy meals to aid digestion, and it was through Roman legions that anise spread widely across Europe.
 
Anise seeds, whether used whole or ground, are popular in teas and confectionery, and also flavour many regional liqueurs - including Greek ouzo, Italian sambuca and French pastis.
 
Throughout history, anise has also been surrounded by folklore. It was once said that it “stirreth up bodily lust”, wards off the evil eye, and keeps nightmares away if placed beneath one’s pillow.
 
Seeds
approximately 120