[2] The Florida anise tree has large evergreen lance shaped leaves that are lustrous and dark green.

[3] The flower is attractive, and it is often overlooked within the lush shiny foliage, but has a fish-like odor.

[citation needed] The Illicium floridanum plant was first discovered in 1765 by the servant of a man named William Clifton, Esq.

[4] This perennial plant is found in northern Florida and Georgia, as well as along the coastal plain toward Louisiana.

[3] The Illicium floridanum shrub can be seen growing in wetlands, but can also be found in non-wetland areas.

However, there is a similar species, the Chinese plant known as Illicium verum, which is used as a spice, and the oil of which is used in medicine and to flavor alcoholic beverages.