Yellow Anise Tree
Illicium parviflorum ‘Florida Sunshine’
It’s so bright, it’s like looking at the golden Florida sunshine. This dense, slow-growing shrub is perfect for adding light to a dark corner of the garden. The crushed leaves smell anise-like, making gardening near this shrub an absolute delight. The flowers are faintly fragrant but visually insignificant – we’re growing this for the gold. Leaves do not drop but will pale to nearly tan in the winter.
Are you willing to take a chance on this beautiful, golden, broad-leaved evergreen? Be sure to note that this shrub is only marginally hardy in our area. It needs to be planted in a sheltered location with southern exposure and may require additional protection in the winter.
Conditions: Part shade to full shade; moist, rich soil; intolerant of dry soils and bright sun
Size: 5′ tall, 3′ – 4′ spread
Zone: 8 – 9 (questionably listed as being hardy to zone 6)
Wildlife Value: Unusual, dark flowers attract small native flies
