star anise
Illicium verum
USDA zones8 to 10
SunNeeds partial sun (4 to 6 hours)
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size15 to 20 feet tall10 to 15 feet wide
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, neutral
Garden uses
Notes
Star anise (Illicium verum) is a shrub for borders and containers, and it needs little care. It is hardy to USDA zone 8, or down to 10°F (-12°C). This plant likes part sun and average to moist, sandy or loamy soil. It is evergreen and fragrant, so it adds scent and leaf cover all year. It can grow quite tall, so give it room to spread.
Pairs well with Pittosporum, Mondo grass, and Bitter ginger.