Illicium parviflorum 'Florida Sunshine'

Golden yellow form of the Florida sweet anis selected from a vast array of seedlings by plantsman Tony Avent. Native of the southeast United States but seems to thrive anywhere (excepts deserts) in USDA zone 7 or above. To 5-6 ft tall. Burgundy flowers are quite a contrast to the foliage. Plant in dappled or at least afternoon shade to maintain foliage color. Best in well-drained soil with summer water in dry places.

You must have Florida Sunshine small anise-tree if you struggle with feeling gloomy in winter. The yellow leaves glow and pulsate with sunny cheer that's especially welcome during gray days and in grayed-out garden areas, but the yellow glow is a real mood-lifter 365 days a year. Small anise-tree is the quintessential native understory evergreen, requiring afternoon shade at least, but with Florida Sunshine shade is even more important or the yellow leaves may bleach out a bit. The young growth can look more chartreuse in certain lights, but it matures yellow. It likes wet soils, but is more drought tolerant than Illicium floridanum. It's great for a shadowy, wet corner of your garden. We think it's slower growing than the green leaved species type, but it's fast enough to add impact in 2-3 years.

WOW! Tony Avent named this selection of the Small Leaf Anise. It is is bold and bright in shade and spectacular in sun. I was afraid at first it would scorch in summer sun, but it has been flawless, even in drought conditions. Great for containers.