Yellow Anise
Yellow Anise is a native, dense, evergreen shrub with fragrant foliage. Although related to the culinary Star Anise, this specific variety is non-edible and mildly toxic. Yellow Anise plants are a moderate-growing shrub that prefers a moist, semi-shaded area to thrive and can be used for dense hedge rows or larger living fences for privacy.
Description & General Information
Scientific Name: Illicium parviflorum
Common Names: Hardy Anise, Yellow Anise, Ocala Anise, Star Anise
Native Range: Florida and South Eastern USA
Zone Hardiness: 7b – 10
Mature Height: 10 – 15 ft
Mature Width: 6 – 10 ft
Flower Color: Pale Yellow
Plant Traits:
- Evergreen Shrub
- Fragrant Foliage
- Dense Mounding Habit
- Can be trimmed to maintain a shorter round stance
General Care & Cultural Requirements
Light: Part Shade to Part Sun
Soil Tolerance: Acidic to Slightly Alkaline, Sandy Loam to Light Clay
Salt Tolerance: Poor
Drought Tolerance: Moderate
Recommended plant spacing: 36-60″ apart
Trimming: Responds well to heavy pruning during late winter thru early summer. Regular trimming at least once per year will promote healthy new growth, and will help the plants maintain a compact habit.
Water: Prefers moist soil, particularly during summer months. Once established, they can survive with minimum irrigation in shady areas.
Fertilizing: In spring, with a well – balanced acidic fertilizer.
Recommended Plant Season: Year Round, planting in the summer will require more water to encourage establishment.
Uses in the Landscape
- Border shrub or living fence for privacy
- Hedge Row
Pest and Disease issues
No major pest or disease issues noted.