Henry anise tree

Description

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. 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. Illicium henryi is native to China, specifically the north-central, south-central, and southeast or west. Illicium is derived from Latin and means 'seductive'. The name is in reference to the plant's fragrance. Henryi is named for Augustine Henry (1857-1930), 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.