Step-by-Step Growing Guide
Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is an annual herb from the eastern Mediterranean that requires a long, warm growing season — at least 120 frost-free days. It grows best in light, well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Because anise has a taproot and resents transplanting, direct sow seeds in the final growing location after last frost when soil reaches 60°F. Sow 1/4 inch deep, 6 inches apart, and thin to 12–18 inches once established. Anise grows 18–24 inches tall with an umbel-shaped white flower cluster. It prefers dry, warm summers similar to its native climate — excessive rain and humidity during seed development leads to poor seed quality. Water moderately during vegetative growth, then reduce once the plant flowers and begins seed set. A single application of balanced fertilizer at planting is sufficient; over-fertile soil promotes excessive leafy growth at the expense of seed production. Stake plants in windy locations, as the tall hollow stems are prone to lodging.
