Illicium anisatum - Japanese Anise autumn but it was cut intensively

but it was cut intensively for so long that by the second half of the 20th century very few old trees remained

The most striking feature of this species is it unique flowers and the sweet fruity fragrance its flowers being described as a mix of melons

The tree has multiple uses from its wood being used in long bows to being used as a hedgerow and is very hardy

In late spring it flowers with blooms last for several weeks followed by raspberry-like fruit in autumn

Illicium anisatum - Japanese Anise autumn but it was cut intensivelyThis unique evergreen shrub that is native to east Asia including Japan, Korea and Taiwan it grows to 3 4m producing delicate spider like cream flowers which are followed by star anise seed pods. The dark green leathery leaves and the wood have a strong and agreeable fragrance and is used as an incense in Japan. It has similar growing requirements to Rhododendrons. All parts of this plant are poisonous and should not be consumed