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Illicium anisatum

Japanese star anise

A shrub, even a small tree, usually to 2m, but possibly to 6m in very mild areas. The narrowly oval leaves, to 5cm long and 2cm wide, are dark green. Young branches are green, spotted brown, and aromatic like the leaves. Flowers are pale greenish yellow with many, slightly twisting narrow petals, borne clustered in the leaf axils in spring

Other common names
Japanese anise
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Cream Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Schisandraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
TOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats): TOXIC if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

licium are evergreen shrubs or small trees with entire, leathery leaves. Both leaves and bark may be aromatic. The many-petalled flowers are borne in the leaf axils, usually singly, followed by star-shaped fruits

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Japan, Korea

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist, but well-drained, humus-rich acidic soil in full sun or partial shade. Under glass grow in ericaceous potting compost in bright light, but shaded from the hottest sun. In the growing season, water moderately and apply a balanced fertiliser on a monthly basis

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer. Can also be propagated by layering in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Architectural
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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