Japanese star anise Illicium anisatum
ABOUT
The Japanese star anise is a plant featuring evergreen foliage that retains a vivid green color throughout the year. Each leaf is lance-shaped with a smooth texture and a glossy surface, emanating a pleasant fragrance when crushed. This plant boasts star-shaped flowers, usually exhibiting a subtle shade of yellow with a tinge of green, which stand out conspicuously against the lush foliage. The flowers give way to distinctive seed pods that resemble a star in shape. These hard, woody pods contain seeds that are similarly aromatic. The Japanese star anise holds a strong visual appeal owing to its combination of fragrant leaves, eye-catching flowers, and unique seed pods, making it a plant that is appreciated both for its beauty and its aromatic qualities.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Illiciaceae.
Synonyms
Japanese Star Anise, Skimmi, Shikimi, Aniseed Tree, False Star Anise.
Common names
Illicium religiosum, Illicium miyabei, Badianifera religiosa, Illicium anisatum var. religiosum.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum), is considered to be toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain potent neurotoxins and should not be consumed. Ingesting Japanese star anise can cause severe symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, seizures, and even death. It's especially important not to confuse this plant with Chinese star anise, which looks similar but is generally recognized as safe to use in cooking.
To pets
Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum) is also toxic to pets. If a pet ingests any part of this plant, it could lead to symptoms such as seizures, vomiting, and tremors. Severe poisoning can result in death. Pet owners should ensure their animals do not have access to this plant, as the consequences of ingestion can be significant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Greenish-white
Height
10 feet [3 meters]
Spread
10 feet [3 meters]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aromatic Properties: The Japanese star anise, emits a pleasant and sweet fragrance similar to aniseed, which is used in perfumes and aromatic oils.
- Culinary Uses: Although it is toxic and not edible, the aroma of Japanese star anise is sometimes used to flavor drinks and confectioneries, provided contamination with the edible variety (Chinese star anise) is controlled.
- Decorative: With its star-shaped seed pods and evergreen leaves, it can serve as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
- Cultural Significance: In Japan, it is used for cultural and ceremonial purposes due to its association with happiness and good luck.
- Insect Repellent: The essential oil of Japanese star anise has been traditionally used to repel insects.
Medical Properties- Anesthetic: Illicium anisatum has been used for its mild anesthetic properties in traditional medicine.
- Antibacterial: Compounds within the plant exhibit antibacterial qualities, potentially useful against certain bacterial strains.
- Antifungal: It possesses antifungal properties, which may be valuable in treating fungal infections.
- Antispasmodic: Illicium anisatum may help relieve spasms in the digestive system.
- Carminative: The plant has been used to help in the relief of gas and bloating in the digestive tract.
- Expectorant: Traditionally used to help clear mucus from the respiratory tract.
- Sedative: The plant has been known to have a sedative effect, potentially aiding in sleep or the calming of nerves.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Illicium anisatum, commonly known as Japanese star anise, has been used as insect repellent due to its strong aroma that insects tend to avoid.
- The wood of Japanese star anise is sometimes utilized in the creation of small carving crafts and intricate wooden ornaments.
- The essential oil derived from Japanese star anise can be used in aromatherapy for creating a calming and relaxing environment.
- Japanese star anise is used in potpourris and sachets for its scent and decorative star-shaped seed pods.
- The plant is incorporated into landscaping as an ornamental shrub due to its evergreen foliage and attractive flowers.
- Japanese star anise has been historically used to perfumed personal items, like clothing and bed linens.
- Dried seed pods can be utilized as a natural room freshener or in drawers to impart their scent to fabrics.
- The plant's leaves and seeds may be used in the production of natural dyes for fabric or crafting materials.
- In some traditional ceremonies, the seeds or leaves of Japanese star anise are burned as incense.
- Japanese star anise is occasionally used in culinary practices as a flavoring agent for syrups, beverages, or confectionaries, although caution should be taken due to potential toxicity if not used correctly.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Japanese star anise is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Japanese star anise is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Illicium anisatum, commonly known as Japanese star anise, is often associated with protection. Its star-shaped seed pods have been used in various cultures to ward off evil spirits.
- Purification: The plant's aromatic qualities lend it to be used in purifying rituals, symbolizing the cleansing of negative energy and the promotion of a positive environment.
- Good Luck: In some traditions, carrying the seeds of Japanese star anise is believed to attract good fortune and success.
- Spirituality: Due to its strong and distinctive scent, Japanese star anise is used in incense for spiritual ceremonies, symbolizing a deeper connection with the divine.
WaterThe Japanese Star Anise prefers consistently moist soil, so it's important to water it regularly without allowing the soil to become waterlogged. Water it thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. A general guideline is to provide approximately 1 gallon of water every week, but this may vary with temperature and humidity conditions. During hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering, while in winter, you should reduce the frequency. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
LightJapanese Star Anise thrives in partial shade or filtered sunlight, making it suitable for an east-facing window or a spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Avoid placing it in full, direct sun during the peak hours, as this can cause leaf burn, but remember it does need some light to flourish, so complete shade is not advisable either.
TemperatureThe Japanese Star Anise prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 80°F. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 30°F for short periods, but frost can be damaging, so it's best kept in a frost-free location. The ideal temperature range for promoting growth is within 60°F to 70°F.
PruningPrune Japanese Star Anise to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune is in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Generally, pruning once a year is sufficient, but you can also prune lightly throughout the year to remove unwanted growth or to keep the plant tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilJapanese Star Anise prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of loam, sand, and organic compost is ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingJapanese Star Anise should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to prevent root bounding and to refresh the soil, ensuring healthy growth.
Humidity & MistingJapanese Star Anise thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% and 70%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA.
Life cycleIllicium anisatum, commonly known as Japanese star anise, begins its life cycle when seeds are dispersed by wind or animals and germinate in moist soil with partial to full shade. The seedlings emerge with a set of embryonic leaves and soon develop true leaves as they establish a root system. As it matures into a shrub or small tree, Japanese star anise develops strong woody stems and a foliage of evergreen leaves while often reaching a height of up to 5 meters. After a few years, the plant starts producing flowers, which are pale yellow and usually appear in the spring. Once pollinated, typically by insects, the flowers give way to the plant's distinctive star-shaped seed pods containing seeds that will perpetuate the species' life cycle. The plant can live for many years, continuing to grow and produce flowers and seeds seasonally.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Japanese star anise, or Illicium anisatum, is commonly propagated through its seeds. The optimal time for propagation by seeds is in spring, when temperatures are mild and conducive to germination. The seeds should be sown in a light seed starting mix, ensuring they are placed at a depth approximately twice their size. They require consistent moisture and good drainage, as well as warmth—ideally around 70°F (about 21°C). The medium should be kept damp but not waterlogged, as the seeds can rot easily if they're too wet. Once the seedlings emerge and develop a few true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots with regular potting soil and gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions if they are to be planted outside.