Species
1 other cultivar
'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree
Illicium parviflorum 'Florida Sunshine'
Same species
Species
1 other cultivar
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
48 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average to high
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
Southeastern United States
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested. Not a substitute for culinary star anise.
The Story
Plant Bio
Illicium parviflorum, or Small Anise Tree, is a dense, rounded, evergreen shrub native to central Florida. It features aromatic, olive-green leaves and small, inconspicuous, yellow-green flowers in late spring. The foliage has a distinct anise or licorice scent when crushed. This cultivar is prized for its brilliant, chartreuse to golden-yellow evergreen foliage. The color is brightest in sun and more lime-green in shade. It offers multi-season interest with its vibrant color, especially brightening shady areas.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-draining soil mix with organic matter for planting.
- Tuck seedlings or cuttings into the soil, ensuring roots are well covered.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around roots.
- Maintain consistent moisture, especially during the first growing season.
- Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and health.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade for optimal growth and vibrant foliage color.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
- Prune after flowering to promote bushiness
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to harsh, full sun which can scorch leaves
- Refrain from heavy pruning during late fall or winter
- Don’t forget to protect from strong winds that can damage branches
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree questions
What zones can 'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree grow in?
'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is 'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree deer resistant?
Yes — 'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does 'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree bloom?
'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does 'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree need full sun?
'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is 'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), 'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Illicium to compare
Miss Scarlett Illicium
Illicium floridanum 'Miss Scarlett'
Bananappeal Anise Tree
Illicium parviflorum 'First Editions Bananappeal'
Pink Frost Florida Anise Tree
Illicium floridanum 'Pink Frost'
Woodland Ruby Anise Tree
Illicium 'Woodland Ruby'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow 'Florida Sunshine' Anise Tree with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.