star anise

(noun) small tree of China and Vietnam bearing anise-scented star-shaped fruit used in food and medicinally as a carminative. Synonyms: Chinese anise, Illicium verum.

(noun) small shrubby tree of Japan and Taiwan; flowers are not fragrant. Synonyms: Illicium anisatum.

(noun) anise-scented star-shaped fruit or seed used in Asian cooking and medicine. Synonyms: Chinese anise, star aniseed.