This is a rapid growing, spring blooming, low maintenance evergreen shrub with spectacular dark glossy green foliage. A most dependable shrub in the Florida shady landscape. A combination that’s hard to beat. Red blooms in the spring are followed by star-shaped seed pods which cling to the stems. The leaves give off a lush anise fragrance when bruised or crushed. You can propagate this plant from cuttings or seeds (seeds come from a pretty star shaped pod). It can grow 10'- 15' tall with a 6'-10' spread in width. Plant this in a damp shady area and enjoy the Florida shade in the spring time while enjoying this beautiful bloomer!
Do not cut the spent blooms, though, as the flowers shift to star-shaped pods that hold the bean-like seeds. Once mature, the seeds will burst and sending the seeds all over. These seeds germinate readily and provide an easy means of propagation. New plants can also be obtained from mature or hardwood cuttings that root easily.
If desired, the shrub can be trained into a small tree by removing some of the lower limbs. For a more rounded, shrublike form, tip prune to encourage branching, especially when young. If a hedge is desired, plant on 10-foot centers for compactness. In a mixed shrub border, allow about 15 feet between Florida anise and other shrubs to maintain the individuality of each specimen. Florida anise fits well into naturalistic landscapes in damp, shady areas.
Do not use llicium floridanum or I. parviflorum as spices. Both are toxic and should not be ingested. Enjoy the beauty.