It comes from licorice root. Fennel and anise both have the same chemical that licorice does, which is why they all taste the same. The plants themselves are not closely related.
There is a plant known as licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra). The flavouring comes from the root. Licorice is not related to the plants of anise nor fennel.
they both taste the same just with a different kick, it's very popular from where i'm from. fennel is very good, i like fennel in my soup i like it tasting gooey like.
RE:
Is licorice made from fennel?
I tried fennel about two years ago.My first observation was its similarity to licorice. Does anyone know if there is a connection between the foods?