Cross-Pollination in Anise – Seed Viability and Hybridization

Black Anise Seed Production

A grower of wild black-seeded anise (more flavorful, endangered) has one plant that set seed. They read green anise requires cross-pollination and wonder if seed from a single plant is viable.

Cross-Pollination Basics

Plants that require cross-pollination need pollen from a different plant (usually same species). A single isolated plant may produce no seed, sterile seed, or seed with low viability. Anise (Pimpinella anisum) is typically insect-pollinated and not self-fertile.

Black Anise Note

"Black anise" may refer to a regional variety of Pimpinella anisum. If only one plant exists, seed may not be viable. Try to obtain a second plant for cross-pollination, or hand-pollinate if flowers are accessible.