Star Flower Scorpio Illicium

Star Flower Scorpio™ is the trade name for the hybrid Illicium selection ‘NCIH1’ (PP 29,939), introduced by North Carolina State University. Star® Roses and Plants describes a dense evergreen shrub with star-shaped red flowers and dark-green foliage; NC State identifies the selection as Illicium Scorpio™ ‘NCIH1’ and describes a hybrid between I. floridanum and I. mexicanum, now classified under I. floridanum. [Star® Roses and Plants](https://starrosesandplants.com/plants/star-flower-scorpio-illicium/) [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/illicium-scorpiotm-ncih1/common-name/star-flower-scorpio/) Published size estimates differ: NC State reports 2–3 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide, while the breeder’s guide lists 3 feet by 5 feet. NC State describes large red-purple flowers in spring, summer, and fall, with two main bloom periods and scattered blooms between them; the breeder’s guide highlights spring flowers followed by a late-summer rebloom. Both profiles describe an evergreen shrub for full sun or partial shade, and recommend moist, well-drained soil. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/illicium-scorpiotm-ncih1/common-name/star-flower-scorpio/) [Star Flower Scorpio grower guide](https://starrosesandplants.com/app/uploads/2024/04/IlliciumStarFlowerScorpio_GrowerGuide-2.pdf) The sources describe foliage color as dark green and yellow-green, and note fragrant flowers and leaves with an anise-like scent when crushed. NC State lists hedge, understory, specimen, and water-garden uses, and warns that Illicium species other than I. verum have varying toxicity; do not ingest the leaves or seeds. [Star® Roses and Plants](https://starrosesandplants.com/plants/star-flower-scorpio-illicium/) [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/illicium-scorpiotm-ncih1/common-name/star-flower-scorpio/) ## Maintenance Prune in late winter if needed. The grower guide recommends maintaining even moisture in well-drained soil and using a light early trim to encourage branching during production. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/illicium-scorpiotm-ncih1/common-name/star-flower-scorpio/) [Star Flower Scorpio grower guide](https://starrosesandplants.com/app/uploads/2024/04/IlliciumStarFlowerScorpio_GrowerGuide-2.pdf)