Star anise (Illicium verum) is the dried star-shaped fruit of an evergreen tree native to southwestern China and northern Vietnam, and it is botanically unrelated to common anise (Pimpinella anisum) despite a near-identical scent profile. Both contain anethole as their primary aromatic compound; star anise carries it at a higher percentage and is the cheaper of the two for commercial perfumery. The note functions in oriental and gourmand compositions as a top-to-heart warmth. Bond No. 9 Harrods For Him uses star anise in its top notes for an aromatic-licorice bridge.
