shrub

Miss Scarlett Illicium

Illicium floridanum 'Miss Scarlett'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

42 inches

Width

42 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to high

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Southeastern North America

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Illicium floridanum, or Florida Anise, is an evergreen shrub native to the southeastern US. It is prized for its aromatic, olive-green leaves and unique, star-shaped, reddish flowers. 'Miss Scarlett' is a cultivar selected for its vibrant, true-red flowers, which are more numerous and brighter than the species. It also has a more compact, dense growth habit.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Offers multi-season interest with its aromatic evergreen foliage, unique and vibrant red flowers, and a compact habit. It is a fantastic problem-solver for difficult, shady areas.

Its dense habit makes it a useful low screen or informal hedge in shade gardens. It is also highly deer and rabbit resistant, requiring little protection.

As a cultivar of a plant native to the southeastern United States, it provides cover for wildlife and supports local ecosystems. Its flowers attract small fly and beetle pollinators.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in partial to full shade with moist, rich soil.
Amend the planting area with compost or other organic matter.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the container.
Set the plant in the hole, with the root crown at soil level.
Backfill with soil and water thoroughly to settle.
Maintain a consistent moisture level, especially in the first year.

Pro Tip

The anise-like fragrance is released when leaves are crushed; plant it near a path to enjoy the scent.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in a shady, moist location.
Mulch well to keep roots cool and moist.
Provide supplemental water during droughts.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.

Don't

Do not plant in full sun or dry, sandy soil.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Do not ingest any part of the plant; it is toxic.
Do not confuse with culinary star anise (Illicium verum).

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant flowering accent for shade gardensAromatic evergreen foundation plantingNaturalizes well in woodland settings

Companion Plants

Hosta Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum' Helleborus Rhododendron Hydrangea quercifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Miss Scarlett Illicium questions

What zones can Miss Scarlett Illicium grow in?

Miss Scarlett Illicium is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Miss Scarlett Illicium deer resistant?

Yes — Miss Scarlett Illicium is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Miss Scarlett Illicium bloom?

Miss Scarlett Illicium typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Miss Scarlett Illicium need full sun?

Miss Scarlett Illicium does best in part shade.