Anise ( Pimpinella anisum ) , also anÃ s and aniseed is a flowering plant in the family Apiaceae native to the eastern Mediterranean region and southwest Asia known for its flavor that resembles liquorice , fennel , and tarragon . Anise ( ; Pimpinella anisum , also anÃ s ( stressed on the second syllable ) and aniseed ) is a flowering plant in the family Apiaceae native to the eastern Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia . It is known for its flavor , which resembles liquorice , fennel and tarragon .