Anise vs Star Anise: Key Differences

By Rachel Torres · October 15, 2026

Are They Related?

Despite similar names and flavors, anise (Pimpinella anisum) and star anise (Illicium verum) are completely unrelated plants. Anise is a Mediterranean herb in the carrot family. Star anise is a tree native to China in the magnolia family.

Appearance

Anise seeds are small, oval, ridged, and gray-green. Star anise is a distinctive star-shaped fruit with 6-8 points, each containing a shiny brown seed. They look nothing alike.

Flavor Comparison

Both contain anethole, the compound responsible for the licorice-like flavor. Star anise is slightly stronger and more bitter. Anise is sweeter and more delicate. In most recipes, they can substitute for each other at a ratio of 1 star anise = 1/2 tsp anise seeds.

Culinary Traditions

Anise: Mediterranean cookies, Italian biscotti, Greek ouzo, French pastis
Star anise: Chinese five spice, Vietnamese pho, Indian biryani, mulled wine

Medicinal Uses

Star anise contains shikimic acid, which is used to produce the antiviral drug Tamiflu. Anise has traditionally been used as a digestive aid and breath freshener. Both have been used in folk medicine across cultures.