Overview

Illicium 'Woodland Ruby' is a shrub, small tree shrubs in the genus Illicium, part of the Schisandraceae family, with evergreen foliage. Illicium 'Woodland Ruby' 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 'Woodland Ruby' is an evergreen shrub or small tree cultivar belonging to the genus Illicium, 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 positions. It grows best in fertile, well-drained loam or sandy soils that are moist and range from acid to neutral pH. Suitable for use as a specimen plant, hedge, or in woodland gardens, 'Woodland Ruby' is hardy to UK zone H5 and offers interest primarily in spring and summer.

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 'Woodland Ruby' 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 'Woodland Ruby'

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 'Woodland Ruby'?

Illicium 'Woodland Ruby' prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Illicium 'Woodland Ruby' need?

Illicium 'Woodland Ruby' grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.

Is Illicium 'Woodland Ruby' hardy in the UK?

Illicium 'Woodland Ruby' 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 'Woodland Ruby'?

Layering, Semi-ripe cuttings, Seed.

More in the Illicium genus

Browse all Illicium