Star Anise (Badia)

Clients can avail from us Star Anise (Badia), which is preferred for its distinctive flavour and aroma. The dried, star shaped fruit of an evergreen tree Illicium Verum is known as Star Anise. The tree is 8-15 meters high and is of 25 cm diameter. The leaves of the tree are long up to 10-15 cm long and almost 2.5 a 5 cm broad. These are elliptic shaped and the flowers are white to red in colour and hang solitary. The star shaped fruits are reddish brown in colour and consist of 6-8 carpels that are arranged in a whorl. These carpels are 10 mm long and are boat shaped. Further, the carpels are hard and wrinkled and contain seed. Seeds are smooth, shiny and brown in colour. Further, these are compressed, ovoid, and brittle.

Origin and Distribution: The plant is originated from South Eastern China. It is commercially produced in China and Vietnam. In India, Star Anise is cultivated in Arunachal Pradesh only.

Geographical Condition: Star Anise grows in traditional growing areas where specific agro climatic conditions are available. The crop requires woodlands, sunny edges, and dappled shade. It prefers humus rich, mildly acidic to neutral soils with light to medium drainage. This plant withstands temperatures down to a 10 degree C.

Uses:
Used in Chinese savoury cooking to add distinct flavour
Used to flavour vegetables, meat, and to marinate meat
For flavouring curries, confectioneries, spirits, and for pickling, it is used as a condiment.