Florida Anise

Illicium floridanum
Yes โ€” SE US Phase 2 ยท Layering out Flowering & Structure Shrubs
โ˜€ Light
Shade to part shade
๐Ÿ’ง Water
Moist
๐Ÿ“ Mature size
6โ€“10 ft
๐ŸŒธ Bloom / interest
Deep red star flowers, spring; aromatic evergreen foliage
๐Ÿƒ Foliage
Evergreen
๐ŸŒŽ Native
Yes โ€” SE US
๐ŸฆŒ Deer
Resistant (aromatic)
๐Ÿ›’ How many
3โ€“5

Why we want it

A true evergreen screen for shade that deer won't touch โ€” rare and valuable. The chartreuse cultivar lights up dark corners.

Where it goes in our yard

Shady screening and the north side; massing for an evergreen wall.

Planting & care

Wants consistent moisture and shade; tidy, low-maintenance. Aromatic leaves deter browsing.

What to buy

'Florida Sunshine' (chartreuse foliage, red winter stems) is the standout.

Sourcing

Southeastern native nurseries and garden centers.

Read more at NC State Extension โ†’