Noteworthy CharacteristicsOn moist sites, yellow anise grows rapidly, rooting branches where they touch the ground. Dry conditions bring slower growth and a more restrained form.

CareHighly adaptable, Illicium parviflorum tolerates shade and sun, moist soils, and dry soils. It is upright and tight in full sun, with yellow to olive green leaves. Grown in deep shade, it has a more relaxed habit with medium-to-dark green leaves and fewer blossoms. Can be sheared and trained for a hedge, or grown informally.

PropagationTake semi-ripe cuttings in summer. Layer in summer.

ProblemsBacterial spot, anthracnose, stem canker, root and crown rots.