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• Photo 6 of 16

Florida Anise Tree (6 of 16)

Dark green leaves grow similar to rhododendron leaves.
When crushed, the leaves emit a scent similar to anise.
The trees produce slender, 2-inch, maroon blossoms in mid-spring. Some say they're fragrant; others say they smell like live fish.
When ripe, the shiny, jewel-like seeds literally explode out of the papery star-shaped fruits.
Partial to full shade.
Warning! The Florida Anise Tree is toxic.
Hardy in USDA zones 6-9:
Zone 6: Plant in early spring or early fall; plant in full sun to light shade; mulch in spring to conserve moisture and again after first hard frost; prune only if needed in early spring.
Zone 7: Plant in early fall; plant in light to moderate shade; mulch in spring to conserve moisture and again after first hard frost; prune only if needed in early spring.
Zone 8: Plant in early fall; plant in light to moderate shade; mulch in spring to conserve moisture and again after frost; prune only if needed in early spring.
Zone 9: Plant in early fall; plant in light to moderate shade; mulch in spring to conserve moisture and again in fall; prune only if needed in early spring.
Care for Florida anise tree:
Requires almost no maintenance.
Tolerates moist soil; should be mulched and watered during prolonged dry spells as it has a tendency to wilt.