anise tree

8.4

An evergreen shrub or tree with strong-smelling leaves and seeds used as a spice and for scent

noun
/ˈænɪs tri/

: árbol de anís

The anise tree is often grown for its fragrant leaves and attractive flowers.

Examples

Some cultures use the seeds of the anise tree as a spice in traditional dishes.
The garden features an ancient anise tree that blooms every spring.
The anise tree has fragrant leaves.
Many anise trees grow in this region.
The anise tree is valued for its aromatic leaves, which are used in various culinary recipes.
In the botanical garden, the anise tree stands out due to its unique star-shaped fruit.
Many herbalists recommend the anise tree for its soothing properties and pleasant fragrance.

Synonyms

Illicium

vsanise tree

Specialized

1 9.9

An evergreen tree or small bush with fragrant leaves and star-shaped fruit used as a spice

is an individual shrub or small tree in that broader group with aromatic seeds

genus Illicium

vsanise tree

Specialized

9.9

A group of evergreen trees with aromatic leaves like star anise

is one evergreen shrub or small tree within that group with aromatic seeds

Surface Forms

anise tree singular

anise trees plural

Morphology

anise + tree

The phrase is a straightforward compositional noun phrase: 'anise' (a plant/spice) + 'tree' signals a tree associated with anise (i.e., a tree bearing or related to the anise plant), so a learner who knows both words can infer the meaning. Naming plants as X + tree is cross-linguistically common and follows regular composition, making the expression transparently interpretable by B1 learners.

Etymology

Anise tree may get its name from the strong, licorice-like smell of its seeds and leaves, so people compared the plant to the spice anise. That's why calling it an anise tree helps you remember that this small 'tree' is known for fragrant seeds used as a 'spice'.