Vietnamese star anise, scientifically known as Illicium verum, is a star-shaped spice native to Northeast Vietnam and Southwest China. Renowned for its distinct flavor and medicinal properties, this spice holds a special place in both culinary and cultural traditions of Vietnam. This article delves into the uses, benefits, and cultural significance of Vietnamese star anise, showcasing its role in Vietnamese cuisine and beyond.
Currently, Vietnamese star anise is a rare and valuable product that is being promoted in the mountainous areas of the northern provinces. Because of its benefits in life, star anise deserves to be an indispensable herb in every family.
Characteristics of Vietnam star anise
Star anise is a perennial woody plant with a height of 6 – 10m, appearing in the mountains of northern Vietnam and China. The tree is characterized by green leaves all year round, staggered to each other, lance-shaped or oblong eggs, gradually pointed towards the leaf tail.
Due to the flower shape, people are used to calling it “star anise”, but actually it is actually anise fruit. When young, anise flowers are green, when old, the calyx will dry out and have the familiar dark brown color.
There are 3 types of Vietnam star anise that you may want to know, which are whole star anise, blended star anise, and broken star anise.
| Specifications | Spring whole star anise | Autumn whole star anise | Blended star anise | Broken star anise |
| Moisture | 12 – 14% max | 12 – 14% max | 12 – 14% max | 12 – 14% max |
| Broken | 5 – 10% max | 5 – 10% max | Negotiable | Negotiable |
| Admixture | 1% max | 1% max | Negotiable | Negotiable |
| Flower diameter | 2 cm | 2.5 cm | 1.8 – 2.5 cm | 1.8 – 2.5 cm |
The Vietnamese market can supply different types of star anise that meet all the diverse needs of customers. Because it is a large market, the price and quality of Vietnamese star anise are relatively stable.
Vietnam star anise production: Main growing areas
The three regions that grow the most star anise in Vietnam are Lang Son, Quang Ninh, and Cao Bang, with a total planting area of more than 50,000 hectares. In addition, there are also Bac Kan, Thai Nguyen, and Quang Ninh which also grow star anise plants for export. The 3 regions that grow the most star anise in Vietnam are Lang Son, Quang Ninh, and Cao Bang with a total area of more than 50,000 ha. These regions have suitable soil and climatic conditions for Vietnam star anise production.
Lang Son province is the most important area of Vietnam star anise production. In Lang Son province, star anise is mainly cultivated in the districts of Van Lang, Van Quang, Cao Loc, Binh Gia, South Truong Dinh, and Bac Son. As of early 2022, the total area of star anise in the province is more than 33,738 hectares, of which the star anise area in the districts of Van Quan, Binh Gia, and Van Lang is over 25,000 hectares, accounting for 74.1% of the total area of star anise in the whole province.
Vietnam star anise production compared to the world’s
According to the statistics of the World Spice Organization, Vietnam star anise production ranks 2nd globally. With star anise, Vietnam is a potential supplier of the world spice and flavoring market, valued at 21.3 billion USD in 2021 and will increase to 27.4 billion USD in 2026 (according to Marketsandmarkets.com). Besides, according to Tridge data, China, Vietnam, and India are now the dominant suppliers of star anise worldwide. Among them, Vietnam and China are the only two countries that can produce star anise in large quantities thanks to favorable conditions. Vietnam is currently the second biggest supplier of star anise globally, with a total volume of $81.31M export value and accounting for about 18.79% marketing share in export volume (2020 statistics). Normally, Vietnam star anise production is around 5,500 – 6,500 tons annually.
The main Vietnam star anise consumption markets in the world are China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, the UK, the USA, France, Japan, and Germany. In particular, China and India are the two largest markets for Vietnam’s star anise.
Vietnam’s competitive advantages in star anise production
Why is it just a small country, but Vietnam has competitive advantages in producing such a large output of star anise? There are a few reasons that make it great for Vietnam star anise production and star anise growing, which are favorable geographical conditions, favorable geographical location, skillful workers, and finally, governmental support. In order to improve the Vietnamese star anise production for domestic uses and export, the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam additionally encourages businesses to take part in agricultural fairs.
Vietnam star anise production process
Few people know that in the world today, there are only two countries that grow star anise, Vietnam and China, and are also the only two countries in the world that are lucky to have star anise. So, what conditions does it require to grow star anise that only China and Vietnam can supply this spice? Let’s learn about the Vietnam star anise production process in 5 easy steps below!
Health Benefits
Vietnamese star anise is not just a culinary delight but also boasts numerous health benefits, thanks to its rich composition of essential oils and bioactive compounds.
- Digestive Aid: Star anise is known for its digestive properties, helping to alleviate bloating and indigestion.
- Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial: The spice contains compounds that possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it useful in traditional medicine for treating colds and flu.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Star anise is a potent source of antioxidants, which help in neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress in the body.
Culinary Uses
- Pho: One of the most iconic Vietnamese dishes, pho, a flavorful beef noodle soup, often features star anise as a key ingredient in its broth, lending a depth of flavor that is both rich and aromatic.
- Braising and Stewing: Star anise is commonly used in braising and stewing meats, enhancing the savory flavors with its sweet and spicy notes.
- Spice Blends: It is also a vital component of the traditional five-spice powder, which is used to marinate meats and in various stir-fried dishes.
Cultural Significance
In Vietnamese culture, star anise holds a place of honor, not only for its culinary uses but also for its symbolic meaning.
- Traditional Medicine: Historically, star anise has been used in traditional Vietnamese medicine for its healing properties, particularly in treating digestive issues and respiratory conditions.
- Festivals and Rituals: The spice is often used in various cultural and religious rituals, symbolizing good fortune and prosperity.
- Economic Importance: Vietnamese star anise is a significant export product, contributing to the livelihoods of many farmers in the regions where it is cultivated.
Sustainable Farming Practices
Vietnam has made strides in promoting sustainable farming practices for star anise, ensuring that the spice is grown in a way that is environmentally friendly and economically viable for local communities.
- Organic Farming: Many farmers are now adopting organic farming practices, reducing the use of harmful pesticides and chemicals.
- Fair Trade: Efforts are being made to implement fair trade practices, ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce.
- Community Support: Programs aimed at supporting local farming communities are helping to improve the quality of life for farmers and their families.
Where To Buy Anise For A Good Price?
Currently, on the market, there are many units that supply star anise at different prices. This has confused many consumers. If you are looking to buy star anise flowers at a reputable address at a good price, then visit Staranisevn ‘s website immediately. Here, we provide a variety of natural spices products, from star anise, and CASSIA/ CINNAMON to black pepper, ginger, … consumer demand for spices. All products have been certified for food safety and hygiene according to domestic and international standards, so you can feel secure when using them.
Don’t forget to visit the website: https://staranisevn.com or call Hotline: (+84) 923.250.093 for advice and support.
Vietnamese star anise is a versatile spice that is integral to Vietnamese cuisine and culture. Its unique flavor, coupled with its numerous health benefits and cultural significance, makes it a treasured spice in Vietnam and around the world. As sustainable farming practices continue to develop, the future of Vietnamese star anise looks promising, ensuring that this spice will continue to be a staple in kitchens and medicine cabinets for generations to come.