Description

Anise (Pimpinella anisum), known in Italian as Anice Verde, is a fragrant annual herb prized for its delicate, feathery green leaves and distinctive sweet, liquorice-like aroma. This traditional Mediterranean herb produces clusters of small white flowers that attract bees and other beneficial insects.

Widely used in Mediterranean cooking, anise is particularly valued for its aromatic seeds, which are used to flavour biscuits, cakes, bread, herbal teas and traditional liqueurs. Its young leaves can also be used sparingly in salads and garnishes, making it a versatile addition to kitchen herb gardens.

🌱 Growing Instructions

☀️ Sunlight: Requires full sun, ideally 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Prefers a sunny position sheltered from strong winds.

💧 Watering: Water regularly during establishment, keeping soil lightly moist but not waterlogged. Established plants tolerate short dry periods, although consistent moisture supports healthy growth.

🌱 Soil: Plant in fertile, light, well-draining soil enriched with a little compost. Avoid heavy, waterlogged conditions.

🌡️ Temperature: Grows best between 15°C–25°C. Prefers mild to warm weather and should be protected from extreme heat during early growth.

📏 Spacing: Allow approximately 20–30 cm between plants for healthy growth and good air circulation.

🌾 Fertilizer: Requires minimal feeding. Apply a light, balanced organic fertilizer during active growth if necessary.

✂️ Harvesting: Pick young leaves sparingly for culinary use. Allow flowers to develop if growing for seeds. Harvest the seed heads when they begin turning greyish-brown, then dry thoroughly before storing.

🌿 Local Growing Tips (Malta)

Best planting season: February to April, allowing plants to establish during mild weather and develop seeds before the most intense summer heat.

Position: Sunny herb gardens, raised beds or deep containers with well-draining soil and protection from strong winds.

Companion plants: Other flowering herbs such as dill and coriander can be grown nearby, provided each plant has sufficient space.

Common issue: Anise develops a delicate taproot and dislikes root disturbance. Transplant carefully without breaking the root ball. Excessive watering can also cause root rot.

📦 Product Information

Variety: Anise (Anice Verde / Aniseed)

Botanical Name: Pimpinella anisum

Family: Apiaceae

Plant Type: Annual Culinary Herb / Spice Plant

Growth Habit: Upright and Delicate

Mature Height: Approximately 30–60 cm

Flowering Season: Late Spring to Summer

Harvest Season: Summer, when seeds mature

Special Characteristics: Sweet liquorice-like aroma, edible aromatic seeds, delicate feathery foliage and attractive white flowers that attract beneficial insects.

Important Information

Pictures shown may vary from actual product due to the live nature of the items. Some items may be out of stock for various reasons, we will issue a refund or offer alternatives should that be the case.

The price is per one plant.