shrub

Woodland Ruby Anise Tree

Illicium 'Woodland Ruby'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

84 inches

Width

66 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to high

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Hybrid of North American species

Toxicity

Assumed toxic like its parent species

The Story

Plant Bio

This is a hybrid between the Mexican anise tree (Illicium mexicanum) and the Florida anise tree (Illicium floridanum var. album), combining traits from both parents. 'Woodland Ruby' is noted for its large, numerous, vibrant pinkish-red, star-shaped flowers that can bloom for an extended period. It has a dense, rounded habit and aromatic foliage.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

A spectacular flowering evergreen for the shade garden, with large, fragrant, ruby-pink flowers that are more numerous and showy than its parent species. The aromatic foliage adds another layer of sensory appeal.

Can be used to create a dense, informal screen in a shady part of the landscape. Its strong deer resistance makes it a reliable choice for woodland gardens.

Provides excellent, dense shelter for birds and other wildlife. The flowers attract small, non-stinging pollinators like flies and gnats.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a sheltered spot with dappled sunlight or afternoon shade.
Prepare the soil by incorporating plenty of compost for richness and drainage.
Dig a hole twice the width of the pot.
Place the plant so its root crown is level with the surrounding soil.
Backfill the hole, firm the soil gently, and water in well.
Apply a 3-inch layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Morning sun and afternoon shade will promote the best flowering without risking leaf scorch.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Mulch annually with leaf mold or compost.
Site in a location protected from harsh winter winds.
Enjoy the fragrant foliage by planting near a path.

Don't

Do not plant in full, hot sun.
Do not allow the plant to dry out between waterings.
Do not ingest any part of the plant.
Avoid heavy pruning, which can reduce flowering.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Showy flowering shrub for woodland gardensAromatic informal hedge or screenSpecimen plant for a shady courtyard

Companion Plants

Ferns Hosta Brunnera macrophylla Epimedium Asarum canadense

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Woodland Ruby Anise Tree questions

What zones can Woodland Ruby Anise Tree grow in?

Woodland Ruby Anise Tree is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Woodland Ruby Anise Tree deer resistant?

Yes — Woodland Ruby Anise Tree is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Woodland Ruby Anise Tree bloom?

Woodland Ruby Anise Tree 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 Woodland Ruby Anise Tree need full sun?

Woodland Ruby Anise Tree does best in part shade.