Illicium 'Florida Sunshine'

Add bright golden tones and fresh licorice scent to the garden with 'Florida Sunshine,' a compact Anise Tree (Ocala Yellow Star) ideal for border, foundation, or even container. This selection of the native shrub is evergreen, with foliage that turns from chartreuse to gold to brightest yellow to parchment-ivory as the weather shifts. A brilliant addition to any garden!

New foliage emerges (among the old) in spring a bright shade of chartreuse with gold overtones on this compact little shrub. These are the greenest shades of the year; as the weather warms for summer, the leaves become more and more yellow, turning bright golden shades for fall, set along stems that turn a bright, startling shade of red. In winter, the foliage bleaches to quieter cream tones, adding welcome light color to the grays and browns of the dormant garden.

The foliage is the star of this shrub, but it also sets small, pumpkin-like fruits that release a strong anise scent for many weeks. Deer and other nibblers leave 'Florida Sunshine' alone, making it a great choice for a woodland or open garden, its fragrance adding immeasurably to its appeal.

Expect 'Florida Sunshine' to reach just 3 to 5 feet high and 2 to 3 feet wide in partial shade or dappled sunshine. Very resistant to heat, humidity, and drought, it is virtually carefree. A nice choice for the foundation, the north side of the house, and even containers.

'Florida Sunshine' was developed by Florida plantsman Charles Webb and introduced by Tony Avent. Such year-round color is very rare and choice indeed, and we are delighted to make it available to you this season. Reserve it today! Zones 6-9.