Illicium floridanum 'Swamp Hobbit'

'Swamp Hobbit' is a dwarf variety of the I. floridanum species, a compact evergreen shrub in the Schisandraceae (starvine) family and native to the southeastern United States. The 'Swamp Hobbit', reflecting its common variety name, can reach 6 to 8 inches in height and a foot or so in breadth in 5 years and may expand to 2 feet high and 5 feet wide over the years. However, it can be trimmed to maintain the desired size. Leaves and flowers are of normal size, but with particularly short internodes.

It is best to grow this plant in part to full shade, as the leaves may scorch in many hours of bright sunlight. It is not drought tolerant, and it is best to plant it in wet sites such as bog gardens, water gardens, along streams and ponds. It does spread by root suckers, which may be cut away as needed. It tolerates heavy shade, erosion, and wet planting sites, but is not cold hardy. 

The bright foliage of this plant is attractive and aromatic, smelling similar to anise spice when crushed or bruised. The shiny, leathery leaves are light olive-green, and the 1.5-inch flowers are dark red, appearing in the early spring. The leaves contain high levels of aromatic compounds that repel or are toxic to insects, making them pest resistant. Some people dislike the odor of the flowers, so consider placing this plant away from seating areas and open windows.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. 

VIDEO created by Andy Pulte for “Landscape Plant Identification, Taxonomy and Morphology” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee.

More information on Illicium floridanum.