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Henry Anise Tree

Illicium henryi

$23.00

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 7-9

The Henry Anise tree is a handsome dense pyramidal Chinese shrub with waxy pink flowers and aromatic evergreen leaves. It was probably first made available to American gardeners by Woodlanders after we obtained it from Hillier Nursery in England. It has been much admired at Woodlanders and has become somewhat more widely available. A good evergreen shrub for southern gardens and best in shade or semi shade in good soil that is moist but well-drained.

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 7 to 9
  • Sun: Part Shade and Full Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained, Moist, and Acid
  • Growth Rate: Moderate

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

Hardiness Zones: 7 - 9

Soil: Well-drained, Moist, and Acid

Sun: Part Shade and Full Shade

Seasonal Behavior: Evergreen

Growth Rate: Moderate

Height at Maturity: 10 - 12 Feet

Spread at Maturity: 6 - 8 Feet

Foliage: The leaves are dark green, leathery, and aromatic when crushed, providing a dense, evergreen appearance year-round.

Flowers: Produces unique, star-shaped, pink to red flowers in the spring and sometimes into early summer. The flowers are fragrant and add a striking visual element to shaded garden areas.

Waxy pink to deep crimson, star-shaped, April

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers partial shade to full shade. Illicium henryi thrives best in shaded or partially shaded environments, making it ideal for woodland gardens or shaded borders. While it can tolerate some morning sun, protection from the intense afternoon sun is essential to prevent leaf scorch.

Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-draining, acidic soil. This plant grows well in rich, loamy soil with a pH range of 5.0-6.5. Illicium henryi is naturally adapted to moist, humus-rich forest soils, so it performs best when the soil is consistently moist. Adding organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold, will improve soil structure and fertility, creating an ideal environment for healthy growth.

Watering: Requires regular watering to maintain consistently moist soil. Henry's Anise Tree does not tolerate drought well and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. The soil should remain evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and regulates soil temperature, which is particularly important in warmer climates.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 7-9. Illicium henryi prefers temperate to subtropical climates and thrives in areas with moderate to high humidity. It is frost-tolerant, but young plants may benefit from protection in areas where temperatures drop significantly. In regions with colder winters, some protection from frost may be necessary.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage. An additional feeding in mid-summer can help sustain the plant through its growing season. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, are also beneficial for maintaining soil fertility and promoting overall plant vigor.

Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain the plant's shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Regular pruning is generally not necessary, but it can help encourage a fuller, bushier growth habit. If the plant becomes too large or needs rejuvenation, it can be pruned more heavily in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant, but the plant may be prone to root rot if the soil is too wet and not well-draining. Ensuring that the soil drains properly and avoiding waterlogged conditions is key to preventing this issue. Illicium henryi is also resistant to deer browsing, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with deer populations.

Grown in Aiken, S.C.

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.

What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.

What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.

Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.