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Genus Illicium

il-LIS-ee-um
The genus Illicium is comprised of aromatic, evergreen trees and shrubs in approximately 40 species grown for their thick and shiny foliage, their unusual starry flowers with many narrow petals, and their woody fruits. Plants have an anise scent. They are beautiful in a woodland garden or border where hardy, or grown in a cool greenhouse.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Aromatic. Glossy leaves, unusual flowers, star-shaped fruits.
 Care: Grow in full sun or partial shade, and moist but well-drained, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. Choose a site out of cold, drying winds. If grown indoors, provide full light with protection from the hottest sun or filtered light. Water sparingly in winter.
 Propagation: Layer or take semi-ripe cuttings, both in summer.
 Problems: Stem canker, root rot, crown rot, bacterial spot, anthracnose.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Illicium

no image available Illicium mexicanum
(Mexican anise tree) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Attractive, glossy, dark green leaves and red flowers are similar to those of Florida anise, but this plant flowers continuously from spring to fall. Red fruit follows.
no image available Illicium parviflorum
(Yellow anise, Yellow anisetree, Star anise) Be the first to rate this plant
Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Dime-sized, drooping, bell-shaped yellow flowers have a faint anise fragrance, but they’re hidden under new foliage in June.