Florida anisetree (Illicium floridanum, Philos. Trans. 60: 524 (1770))

Family: Schisandraceae

Author: J.Ellis

Bibliography: Philos. Trans. 60: 524 (1770)

Year: 1770

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Illicium

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. U.S.A., Mexico (Tamaulipas to Puebla)

Description

Florida anisetree, scientifically known as Illicium floridanum, is an intriguing and aromatic evergreen shrub belonging to the Schisandraceae family. First described by J. Ellis in the philosophical transactions of 1770, this plant has captivated botanists and horticulturists alike with its distinctive characteristics and regional specificity.

Native to the southeastern United States, the Florida anisetree can be found flourishing in the warm, humid climates extending from the southeastern U.S. down to Mexico, particularly in regions from Tamaulipas to Puebla. As an understory plant in moist, wooded areas, it thrives under the canopy of taller trees, benefiting from the dappled shade these habitats provide.

A remarkable feature of the Florida anisetree is its star-shaped, deep burgundy flowers, which bloom profusely from spring to early summer. These flowers emit a strong, anis-scented fragrance, hence the common name. The leaves of the anisetree are leathery, lance-shaped, and dark green, providing a lush, evergreen presence throughout the year.

The Florida anisetree not only adds ornamental value to gardens and landscapes but also plays an essential role in the ecosystem. Its flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, contributing to the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits.

Cultivating Illicium floridanum requires consideration of its natural environment. Gardeners looking to grow this shrub should mimic its native conditions, favoring well-drained, acidic to neutral soils, and ensuring adequate moisture. While it is relatively low-maintenance, providing partial shade will help the plant thrive, protecting it from the intense midday sun.

Overall, the Florida anisetree is a fascinating plant that combines aesthetic appeal with ecological importance, making it a cherished specimen in both botanical gardens and natural landscapes. Its unique fragrance and striking flowers ensure it stands out, while its resilience and adaptability make it a worthy addition to any garden designed to reflect the richness of the southeastern United States and Mexican flora.

Common Names

Eng: florida anise-tree, florida anisetree, purple-anise
En: Florida anisetree, Purple-anise, Florida anise-tree

Synonyms

• Illicium reticulatum (Raf.)
• Illicium floridanum f. album (F.G.Mey. & Mazzeo)
• Badianifera floridana ((J.Ellis) Kuntze)
• Illicium mexicanum (A.C.Sm.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mississippi (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Sep 13, 2019 by K. KsJ (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 22, 2020 by bianca bianca andrews (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 6, 2021 by dixie cousins (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 20, 2022 by Becca McCoy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 18, 2021 by Philippe de Spoelberch (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Sep 13, 2019 by K. KsJ (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 20, 2021 by Hoenn Silverlakes (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 1, 2019 by Mairwen McQueen (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 3, 2019 by Wilhelm Rogmann (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2021 by frogs (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Bark

Taken Apr 4, 2019 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 22, 2020 by bianca bianca andrews (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Oct 6, 2021 by dixie cousins (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 6, 2021 by dixie cousins (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 18, 2022 by Becca McCoy (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2889758)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:554509-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Illicium floridanum J. Ellis)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Shrub, Tree

Growth