Illicium Miss Scarlett®

Miss Scarlett® is the named selection Illicium floridanum 'JCJC' (PP24640), listed by Flowerwood with Southern Living® Plant Collection as breeder. This compact evergreen shrub has glossy green foliage and bright, star-shaped crimson flowers in spring. [Flowerwood’s cultivar listing](https://www.flowerwood.com/plant-name/Illicium-floridanum-Miss-Scarlett) gives its size and hardiness; [NC State Extension’s species profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/illicium-floridanum/common-name/florida-anise-tree/) supplies broader care and safety guidance. ## Size and appearance Expect a dense plant about 4–6 ft tall and 3–4 ft wide in USDA zones 7–10. Flowerwood lists the cultivar’s blooms as burgundy and its foliage as green. NC State notes that Florida anise leaves are aromatic when crushed. ## Site and use Place it in partial sun to full shade and moist, rich, well-drained soil. NC State describes the species as intolerant of drought but able to handle wet sites, and notes that high-organic loam can suit rain gardens. The exact selection is also listed for containers, hedges, and mass planting. The species profile identifies the spring flowers as attractive to pollinators. ## Maintenance Water in dry periods to keep soil moist. Remove root suckers if they spread beyond the desired footprint. NC State cautions that Illicium species and cultivars, except Chinese star anise, have varying toxicity if ingested; do not use it as culinary star anise.