Star Anise
Illicium verum

A small tree native to southwestern China produces the fruit that becomes this flavorful spice — the fruit ripens into the charming shape of a star. Hence the name for this Asian species of anise. Its taste and aroma are very similar to the more common anise (Pimpinella anisum) that has been used since Roman times. Both anises taste a lot like licorice, which has led to them being used with (or instead of) licorice to flavor candies and foods. In Asia, people sometimes eat star anise after meals to freshen breath and aid digestion. The Japanese also use star anise as incense.

Commonly called: star anise, stevia leaves