
Star anise is often confused with green anise. Unlike the small green seed grown in Europe used to make certain alcoholic beverages, this ingredient is a star-shaped fruit that contains small brown seeds. It comes from a tropical tree native to China and Laos, the badanier. In perfumery, the seeds are distilled to obtain an essence with a spicy smell. From an odor perspective, star anise and green anise are very similar, giving off fresh and powerful notes. However, the first is more liquorous while the second reveals more herbaceous nuances. This spice and its aromatic tones are generally invited in the woody and fern accords to bring dynamism.