Description
This evergreen shrub can be grown as a small tree or as a shrub. If unpruned, it will slowly grow to a height of 20'. Leaves are about 4" long by 1½" wide, light green, and densely arranged on vertically oriented stems. The leathery leaves release a pleasant fragrance when crushed. Flowers appear in late spring or early summer and are of little interest (small, greenish-yellow and non-fragrant).

Location
Native to Japan and Korea. Now grown as a landscape plant in mild climate areas of the United States.

Culture
Light: Sun to shade.
Moisture: Adaptable to many (slightly acid) soils, but prefers adequate moisture. Mulch well.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 8-10.
Propagation: Seeds and cuttings.

Usage
Use in shrub borders, screens and woodland areas. A good background shrub for shady areas. As a tree, it works well near the patio or in small yards.

Features
The genus name, Illicium, is Latin for allurement, referring to the anise odor that is released when stems and leaves are crushed. The spice, called anise, is used to flavor bakery goods, liqueurs, etc. and is obtained from the fragrant star shaped fruits of a related species Illicium verum. Two other species are native to the southeastern United States: I. floridana (Florida anise, purple anise) and I. parviflorum (Ocala anise).

WARNING: This plant is toxic! Do not ingest. It is not a substitute for the culinary spice and flavorings obtained from Illicium verum.

js 1/1/97, updated 4/27/99

Copyright 1996 - 2009 Floridata.com LC Tallahassee, Florida USA