Overview
Illicium majus is a shrub, small tree shrubs in the genus Illicium, part of the Schisandraceae family, with evergreen foliage. Illicium majus grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include specimen, hedge and woodland garden.
About
Illicium majus is an evergreen shrub or small tree belonging to the Illicium genus, known for its smooth, leathery leaves and fragrant foliage and bark. This cultivar thrives in partial shade with a preference for north, east, or west-facing, sheltered aspects. It grows best in fertile, well-drained loam or sandy soils that are moist and range from acid to neutral pH. Flowering occurs in spring and summer, with flowers typically appearing singly in the leaf axils, followed by distinctive star-shaped fruits. Suitable for use as a specimen plant, hedge, or in woodland gardens, it is hardy to UK zone H5 and can be propagated by layering, semi-ripe cuttings, or seed.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Illicium
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist
- Aspect
- North, East, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Illicium majus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Shrub, Small tree
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Specimen, Hedge, Woodland garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Illicium majus
- Propagation
- Layering, Semi-ripe cuttings, Seed
- Pest resistance
- Resistant to deer browsing
- Disease resistance
- Stem canker, Root rot, Crown rot, Bacterial spot, Anthracnose
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Illicium majus?
Illicium majus prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Illicium majus need?
Illicium majus grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
Is Illicium majus hardy in the UK?
Illicium majus has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Illicium majus?
Layering, Semi-ripe cuttings, Seed.
More in the Illicium genus
- Illicium 'Woodland Ruby'anise 'Woodland Ruby'
- Illicium henryiHenry's anise tree
- Illicium parviflorum
- Illicium verumChinese anise
