Austrobaileyales, the magic of a new beginning ...

The Austrobaileyales are very old from an evolutionary perspective, but have started something new in this day and age. They have become important to us as medicinal and aromatic plants, with the star anise and the magnolia vine being prominent representatives of the order. The plants are mainly found in Asia and Australia as lianas, shrubs and trees. The star anise is a digestive aid, and its star shape embodies new beginnings as a Christmas decoration. The order is comprised of three families and a total of around 100 species.