To us, Star Anise is Chinese Cuisine. Whenever I am in a food street in China, I can smell Star Anise. Star Anise comes from the fruit of an evergreen magnolia tree. This licorice-tasting spice originates from China and is very common in Chinese cuisine, it’s the main ingredient in Chinese Five Spice. In India, it's common to use Star Anise in Chai Tea and in France, Baking, this pretty spice has so many uses. We sell our Star Anise whole this way it keeps its flavor as ground Star Anise degrades fast. Keeping them whole also gives the opportunity to use them as a garnish, one of the most popular spices to do so with!