Pimpinella Anisum - Anise

Characteristics: A delicate-looking plant that can reach 2 feet in height. Has round to finely cut stem leaves and broader leaves near the ground. In midsummer, the thin stems are topped with umbrella-shaped clusters of white flowers, which are heavy enough to make the stems flop. The seed matures late in the growing season.

Growing Information: Give anise well-drained, fertile soil, lots of sun, and a long season of hot weather. Space plants about 6 inches apart so they can lean on each other. At first bloom, apply a balanced organic fertilizer.

Propagation: Start seed in a peat pot in a warm place indoors in late winter or early spring. Transplant seedlings outdoors when the weather gets mild in late spring. Break open the bottom of the pot before planting; be careful not to disturb the taproot.

Possible Problems: None serious.

Harvesting and Using: You can harvest a few leaves to put in salads or make the leaves your main harvest if your season is too short for the seeds to mature. If your plants produce ripe seed, cut off the seed heads and hang them over newspaper in a warm, airy location. The seeds will dry; some will fall on the paper. Remove the r emaining seeds and freeze them all for 48 hours to kill any pests or pest eggs. Store in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place. Use the seeds to flavor cookies and breads.