Illicium anisatum (Japanese Anise)

Illicium anisatum (Japanese Anise) is a medium-sized evergreen shrub or small tree of conical habit, with stunning, narrowly oval, lustrous dark green leaves, 4 in. long (10 cm). Borne perpendicular to the stems, they are aromatic and used as incense in Japan. In spring, non-scented, creamy-white flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), packed with up to 20-30 petals, are borne in clusters in the leaf axils. They contrast nicely against the foliage. Delicately beautiful, Japanese Anise is useful in difficult wet and shady areas such as screening, in masses, or against a sheltered wall.

• Grows up to 6-15 ft. tall (180-450 cm) and 6-8 ft. wide (180-240 cm).
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in acidic, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils. Water moderately and apply a balanced fertilizer on a monthly basis during the growing season.
• No routine pruning is necessary. Remove diseased, damaged, congested, or crossing shoots.
• Generally pest and disease free.
• Seeds, foliage, and wood are toxic if ingested.
• Native to Japan, Korea.