Pimpinella anisum Umbelliferae

CULTIVATION Aniseed is a half-hardy annual with aromatic, toothed, bright-green lower leaves, lacy upper leaves and clusters of small white blooms from midsummer. Reaching a height of 40cm (15 in), it prefers rich, well-drained soil and full sun. Sow seeds in mid-spring, thinning the seedlings to 12cm (4m) apart. Harvest the leaves and flowers whenever they are available and the seed from late summer. Grow it as a garden, border, container and conservatory herb.