Small, tender evergreen tree with glossy, olive green foliage enhanced by the delightful fragrance of anise. Foliage is similar to rhododendron, and can be planted where rhododendrons will not thrive. Interesting accent tree for small spaces. Evergreen. DO NOT INGEST! Plant is not a substitute for the culinary spice and flavorings obtained from Illicium verum.
Follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Provide well-drained soil, rich in organic matter. Feed with an acid fertilizer before spring growth. Prune to shape after flowering.
Provide organically rich, moist, well-drained soil. Shelter from harsh afternoon sun. Mulch to keep roots cool and conserve moisture. Water deeply, regularly in first growing season to establish root system; once established, water as needed to maintain evenly moist soil. Apply an acid fertilizer in early spring. Prune to shape after flowering.
Winter hardy to USDA Zones 7-10 where it is easily grown in moist, rich soils in part shade to full shade. Tolerates full sun as long as soils are kept uniformly moist. Established plants tolerate some drought, but prefer good moisture. Branches may root where they touch the ground. Spreads by root suckers to form colonies.
Evergreen shrub which can be naturalized in moist shady landscape areas or woodlands. Borders. Foundations. Screen. Hedge. No serious insects or disease problems.
