Illicium (Anise)
Deservedly popular among southern gardeners, Illicium are evergreen shrubs or small trees with leathery, glossy, aromatic leaves. Borne in the leaf axils, their unusual flowers are packed with numerous strap-shaped petals and can be enjoyed for 4-6 weeks in spring. Great shrubs for difficult wet and shady areas where they can be used as screening, in masses or against a sheltered wall.