Illicium floridanum (Florida Anise)

Illicium floridanum (Florida Anise) is a medium-sized evergreen shrub of upright, loose, open habit, with smooth, elliptic, lustrous dark olive-green leaves, 6 in. long (15 cm). Aromatic, the attractive foliage exudes an anise or gin-and-tonic aroma when crushed or bruised. In spring, pretty but unpleasantly scented, dark red flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm), packed with up to 20-30 strap-shaped petals, are on display for 4-6 weeks. Protected in Florida as a threatened species, Florida Anise is a fast-growing, low maintenance shrub with spectacular foliage. It is a great evergreen shrub for difficult wet and shady areas where it can be used as screening, in masses or against a sheltered wall.

• Grows up to 6-10 ft. tall (180-300 cm) and 4-8 ft. wide (120-240 cm).
• A part shade to full shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist soils. Tolerates erosion and wet planting sites. 
• May need pruning when young after flowering.
• Generally pest and disease free.
• Propagate by seeds or semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
• Both the foliage and fruit are poisonous to livestock.
• Native to Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana.