Definition

Noun 1. A type of evergreen plant: "Anise tree" refers to any of several evergreen shrubs or small trees belonging to the botanical genus Illicium. These plants are known for their aromatic, anise-scented foliage and are not the source of the common culinary spice aniseed (Pimpinella anisum).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The anise tree in the garden fills the air with a sweet, licorice-like fragrance.
  • Several species of anise tree are native to the southeastern United States and parts of Asia.
  • While its leaves smell similar, the anise tree (Illicium) is botanically distinct from the herb anise.

Advanced Usage

• "Star anise" connection: The dried, star-shaped fruit of one specific species, , is the source of the spice known as star anise. However, the term "anise tree" itself refers to the living plant, not the spice.
  • The spice star anise is harvested from the fruit of a specific type of anise tree.

Variants and Related Words

• Illicium (n): The scientific genus name for the anise tree.
• Star anise (n): The spice derived from the fruit of .
• Anise shrub (n): An alternative name, emphasizing that many species are shrub-sized.

Synonyms

• Illicium: The direct Latin genus name.
• Anise shrub: A near-synonym highlighting the plant's growth form.

Notes on Meaning

It is critical to distinguish the "anise tree" (Illicium) from the common herb "anise" or "aniseed" (Pimpinella anisum). They share a similar aroma but are different plants. The term "anise tree" specifically and exclusively denotes plants within the Illicium genus.

Noun

1. any of several evergreen shrubs and small trees of the genus Illicium