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Lay two plants next to each other — uses, risks, and whether either has a grow guide.

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Anise

Pimpinella anisum

The licorice seed of Mediterranean baking — a carminative kitchen spice, not the toxic Japanese lookalike of star anise.

Flavor

Sweet licorice, warmer than fennel seed, less medicinal than star anise.

Symptoms

indigestion, bloating, nausea, cramps

In favor

A true baking spice

Against

Needs heat to ripen

Grow lab

Yes

Days to harvest

100–120 days from sow to ripe seed

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