Illicium, << uh LIHSH ee uhm, >> is the name of a group of fragrant shrubs and trees. A species of illicium called the star-anise tree is native to China. It grows about 9 feet (3 meters) high. This evergreen tree has fragrant leaves on short stalks, and purplish-red flowers. The fruits grow in a star-shaped cluster. The fruit yields a spice, also called star-anise, used for flavoring candies and medicines. Some species of illiciums grow in the southeastern part of the United States.
