Quick answer: Florida anisetree (Illicium floridanum) is native to 3 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically live plant, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Tim Ross, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium |
| Soil | Moist, well-drained, rich |
| Bloom | Apr-May |
| Height | Up to 10 ft |
| Wildlife value | Conspicuous maroon-purple flowers attract pollinators |
Source page's Warning field appears to reference a different genus (Ilex) in error -- no genuine Illicium floridanum-specific toxicity data found; not confirmed by source
none noted; sometimes self-sows but not classified invasive
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Live plant via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Florida anisetree
Where is Florida anisetree native?
Florida anisetree (Illicium floridanum) is native to Alabama, Florida and Georgia. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Florida anisetree bloom?
Florida anisetree blooms Apr-May. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Florida anisetree need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Medium. Soil: Moist, well-drained, rich. Mature height: Up to 10 ft.
Is Florida anisetree good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Conspicuous maroon-purple flowers attract pollinators.
Is Florida anisetree deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Florida anisetree is tolerates shade.
Is Florida anisetree toxic?
Source page's Warning field appears to reference a different genus (Ilex) in error -- no genuine Illicium floridanum-specific toxicity data found; not confirmed by source.
Where can I buy real Florida anisetree seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as live plant that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Illicium floridanum on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Florida anisetree.
- Saw palmetto Serenoa repens
- Orange azalea Rhododendron austrinum
- Dwarf palmetto Sabal minor
- Coastal sweetpepperbush Clethra alnifolia
- Green-and-gold Chrysogonum virginianum
- Inkberry Ilex glabra
Also listed under
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