Florida Sunshine Anise

Illicium parviflorum 'Florida Sunshine'

Florida Sunshine Anise is a striking evergreen shrub with an upright habit and fragrant foliage.  The glossy, oblong foliage emerges chartreuse in shade or golden yellow in full sun and brightens to hot yellow in fall, while the upper stems gain bright red hues.  In spring yellow flowers are followed by delightful licorice-scented fruit. The small fruits are non-edible and not a substitute for the culinary spice obtained from Illicium verum - DO NOT INGEST.  Best color in part shade and moist, rich, well-drained soils.  Drought tolerant once established.

To learn more about the Florida Sunshine Anise read  this blog post.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low maintenance.  Water regularly.  Shelter from the harsh afternoon sun. Mulch to keep roots cool and conserve moisture.  Apply an acid fertilizer in early spring. Prune to shape after flowering.

LANDSCAPE USES: Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Wildlife Gardens, Privacy Screen, Foundation Plantings, Hedges, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS: Cast Iron Plant, Fatsia, Holly Leaf Fern