Anise Myrtle (Syzygium anisatum) is one of Australia’s most fragrant and distinctive native bushfood plants. Native to the subtropical rainforests of northern New South Wales, this attractive evergreen tree is prized for its highly aromatic leaves, which release a sweet aniseed and liquorice fragrance when crushed.
Formerly known as Backhousia anisata, the species is now classified as Syzygium anisatum. Its leaves contain naturally occurring aromatic compounds that give them a flavour often compared to aniseed, liquorice, fennel, and star anise, making it a popular ingredient in both sweet and savoury cooking.
With its glossy green foliage, creamy-white flowers, and compact growth habit, Anise Myrtle is equally at home in native gardens, bushfood collections, and productive edible landscapes.
Why Grow Anise Myrtle?
Anise Myrtle combines ornamental beauty with culinary value and is one of the easiest native spices to grow in suitable climates.
Key Features
- Australian native bushfood plant
- Intensely aromatic foliage
- Strong aniseed and liquorice flavour
- Evergreen tree or large shrub
- Attractive glossy foliage
- Creamy-white summer flowers
- Excellent screening plant
- Suitable for pruning and shaping
- Grows well in large containers
- Attracts bees and beneficial insects
Quick Growing Guide
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Syzygium anisatum |
| Former Name | Backhousia anisata |
| Common Name | Anise Myrtle |
| Plant Type | Evergreen rainforest tree |
| Height | 3–10 metres |
| Width | 2–5 metres |
| Position | Full sun to part shade |
| Soil | Moist, well-drained soil |
| Frost Tolerance | Light frost only |
| Pot Suitable | Yes |
| Flower Colour | Creamy white |
| Harvest Season | Year-round |
| Wildlife Value | Attracts bees and pollinators |
Flowers and Wildlife Benefits
During summer, Anise Myrtle produces masses of creamy-white flowers.
The blooms attract:
- Native bees
- Honey bees
- Hoverflies
- Pollinating insects
- Small nectar-feeding birds
When in flower, mature trees can become alive with beneficial wildlife.
Growing Anise Myrtle (Syzygium anisatum)
Anise Myrtle naturally occurs in subtropical rainforest environments and appreciates similar growing conditions in the garden.
Position
For best growth choose:
- Morning sun
- Full sun in cooler climates
- Part shade in hot inland regions
- Sheltered positions protected from strong winds
In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help maintain lush foliage.
Soil Requirements
Anise Myrtle performs best in:
- Rich loamy soils
- Moist but well-drained soil
- Soils enriched with organic matter
Avoid poorly drained or waterlogged positions.
Mulching around the root zone helps conserve moisture and improve soil structure.
Watering
Unlike many Australian natives, Anise Myrtle enjoys consistent moisture.
Young Plants
- Water regularly during establishment.
- Keep soil evenly moist.
Established Plants
- Water deeply during dry periods.
- Avoid prolonged drought stress.
Plants grown in containers may require frequent watering during summer.
Fertilising
Anise Myrtle responds well to regular feeding.
Apply:
- Compost
- Well-rotted manure
- Organic fertilisers
- Slow-release native fertilisers
during spring and early summer.
Avoid excessive fertiliser applications that can encourage soft growth.
Pruning Anise Myrtle
Regular pruning helps maintain a dense, productive plant.
Benefits of Pruning
- Encourages fresh aromatic growth
- Produces more harvestable leaves
- Creates a bushier habit
- Improves screening ability
- Maintains a manageable size
Light tip pruning throughout the growing season works particularly well.
Pests and Problems
Anise Myrtle is generally reliable but may occasionally attract:
- Psyllids
- Scale insects
- Aphids
- Caterpillars
Healthy plants grown in suitable conditions usually suffer few problems.
Frost Tolerance
Anise Myrtle tolerates light frost once established but prefers frost-free or protected locations.
In colder regions:
- Plant near a wall or sheltered position.
- Use frost cloth during severe cold events.
- Consider container growing for protection.
Propagation (Syzygium anisatum)
Anise Myrtle can be propagated from:
- Seed
- Semi-hardwood cuttings
Cuttings are often preferred as they produce plants identical to the parent.
Landscaping Uses for Anise Myrtle
Anise Myrtle is one of the most versatile Australian native edible plants for garden design.
Informal Screening Plant
Its dense foliage makes it excellent for:
- Privacy screens
- Boundary plantings
- Windbreaks
- Garden backdrops
Regular pruning creates a thick, lush hedge.
Feature Tree
The glossy foliage and fragrant leaves make Anise Myrtle (Syzygium anisatum) an attractive specimen tree.
Perfect for:
- Courtyard gardens
- Native gardens
- Rainforest gardens
- Edible landscapes
Sensory Gardens
The aromatic foliage is a standout feature.
Plant near:
- Paths
- Outdoor dining areas
- Garden seating
- Children’s gardens
The fragrance is released whenever the leaves are brushed or crushed.
Productive Landscapes
Anise Myrtle is ideal for combining beauty and harvest.
Plant it where leaves can be easily collected for cooking and tea making.
Where To Buy
Specialist Native Food Nursery with thirty species available in both forestry tubes and 14 cm pots, from ground cover to canopy. Twenty years experience supplying landscape scale projects to backyard gardens.
www.peppermintridgefarm.au .