How to Grow Anise

Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is a fragrant annual herb grown for its licorice-flavored leaves and seeds. It thrives in full sun, well-drained soil, and a long frost-free season. This guide explains planting, germination, care, harvesting, and culinary uses.

Where Should You Plant Anise?

  • Best location: Full sun; sheltered from wind.
  • Soil: Well-drained, organic-rich soil; tolerates poor soil. pH 6.0–6.7.
  • Moisture: Tolerates dry conditions; avoid wet soil.

When Should You Plant Anise?

  • Start indoors: 8 weeks before transplanting; keep seeds at 70°F. “Anise forms a tap root which does not like transplanting or moving.”
  • Transplanting: Move outdoors early spring; protect until frost danger passes.
  • Direct sow: Up to 2 weeks before last frost; needs ~120 frost-free days.

How Do You Plant Anise?

  • Depth: Sow ¼ inch deep; germinates in ~20 days.
  • Spacing: 6–18 inches; thin to 18 inches at 6 weeks.
  • Quantity: 6 plants for leaves; 12 for seed production.

Which Plants Grow Well With Anise?

  • Companions: Encourages cilantro germination; scent may repel aphids and fleas.
  • Avoid: Carrots and radishes.
  • Best pairing: Creeping thyme at the base.

How Do You Water and Feed Anise?

  • Watering: Water when soil dries; avoid overwatering.
  • Feeding: Side-dress with compost or organic fertilizer midseason.

How Do You Care for Anise?

  • Support: Weak stems; stake leggy or wind-exposed plants.
  • Weeding: Keep beds weed-free to reduce competition.

Can You Grow Anise in Containers?

  • Container size: Minimum 8 inches deep and wide.
  • Winter growing: Grow indoors in bright windows or under lights.

What Pests or Diseases Affect Anise?

  • Pests: No serious issues; anise oil may repel insects.
  • Diseases: No significant disease problems.

How Do You Harvest Anise?

  • Timing: Leaves anytime; seeds after 100+ frost-free days. Harvest when seeds “turn brown and fall easily from the head.”
  • Leaves: Snip fresh; dry on screens in cool