Illicium henryi


Illicium henryi, also known by the common names Henry anise tree and Chinese anise tree is a species in the genus Illicium in the family Schisandraceae.

Description

Illicium henryi is a broad-leaved evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching 1.8-7m in height at maturity. Its leaves are entire, and are a glossy dark green above and slightly paler beneath. When crushed, the leaves are highly scented.

Range

Illicium henryi is native to China, specifically the north-central, south-central, and southeast or west.

Etymology

Illicium is derived from Latin and means 'seductive'. The name is in reference to the plant's fragrance.
Henryi is named for Augustine Henry, an Irish botanist who went on plant hunting expeditions to China, and who co-authored Trees of Great Britain and Ireland together with Henry John Elwes.