Illicium floridanum - ​Attractive dark evergreen alternate broad blades emit a deliciously spicy and pungent aroma when crushed. Maroon-purple flowers look like a coral reef denizen of the polyp persuasion. They are odd, cool and interesting if not a touch "Angry Red Planet". Florida Anise-tree has been surprisingly hardy for us in planted in a somewhat sheltered spot in USDA zone 5b. Site in full sun to open/dappled shade planted in fertile, organic and moisture retaining soil. An upright shrub it will be more shapely, dense and attractive if occasionally pruned... Speaking of which: cutting grown. Found naturally in Florida to Louisiana.