5 Seeds Star Anise Illicium verum Evergreen Spice Tree Ornamental
Star anise (Illicium verum) is a striking evergreen spice tree prized for its aromatic, star-shaped fruit and glossy, dark green foliage. It adds an exotic, tropical touch to gardens or containers while being a fascinating conversation piece, with its slow, upright growth habit and ornamental bark. This versatile tree offers year-round appeal, whether grown as a focal point in a subtropical landscape or kept as a potted specimen on a patio.
Use the dried, star-shaped fruits for culinary purposes, such as flavoring broths and baked goods, or enjoy the tree simply as a unique ornamental. It thrives in warm, humid conditions with filtered to full sunlight and well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Start seeds in a warm, moist environment and transplant young plants after they establish. Species: Illicium verum
Variety: Star Anise
Type: Evergreen tree
Plant_Habit: Upright, pyramidal
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic, moist
Days_to_Harvest: 5-7 years (for fruit)
Zones: 8-10 (or container)
Germination: 20-40 days at 20-25°C (68-77°F)
Sowing: Sow seeds 1 cm deep in moist seed mix; keep warm and humid
Spacing: 3-5 meters (10-15 feet) apart in ground
Notes: Slow-growing; protect from frost; seeds may be slow to germinate