Japanese Anise (Illicium Anisatum) is a perennial shrub in the Schisandraceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 7-9. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Illicium anisatum is a broadleaf evergreen shrub or small tree native to Japan, known for its star-shaped flowers and aromatic leaves.

Japanese Anise

Japanese Anise

Illicium Anisatum

Illicium anisatum is a broadleaf evergreen shrub or small tree native to Japan, known for its star-shaped flowers and aromatic leaves.

Quick Facts

Type
shrub
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
7-9

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, sandy
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen plant, hedge, screen

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Japanese Anise

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Japanese Anise
Japanese Anise detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Schisandraceae
Genus:Illicium