Star Anis is a species in the family staring plants. The species occurs in southeastern China and Vietnam. The fruits are an-suite balcons that sit radially arranged in groups of 6-10 pieces. The red-brown fruit is harvested just before it matured and then dried in the sun. Star anise should not be confused with anise. The taste is remarkable, despite the fact that the plants botanically have nothing to do with each other. Star anise is used diligently in the Asian cuisine. Other uses are pastries, fruit compoters, desserts, marinades and fish pots. Star anise is also beautiful to decorate with.