Ba Jiao Hui Xian (Illicium verum)

Family: Illiciaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Illicium verum is an evergreen Tree growing to 5 m (16ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from March to May, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in curries, teas and pickles. — The fruit is used as a flavouring in curries, teas and pickles.; It is an ingredient of 'five spice powder', used in Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine.; The fruit is also chewed after meals in order to sweeten the breath.; Caution is advised because it is said to be poisonous in quantity.

Habitat & North American Range

Light woodland and thickets. Forests at elevations of 200 - 1600 metres in S and W Guangxi Province, China. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)