Anise Horsebalm

Collinsonia anisata is a robust perennial herb arising from a thickened rhizome. Stems are erect, somewhat square in cross-section, and typically unbranched below the inflorescence. Leaves are opposite, large, ovate to broadly ovate, and long-petiolate, with serrate margins and an acuminate apex. The foliage is strongly anise-scented when crushed. The inflorescence consists of terminal panicles. Flowers are bilabiate, with a tubular corolla that is pale yellow to cream with a fringed whitish lower corolla lobe. The calyx is campanulate and five-lobed, enclosing the developing fruit.

Collinsonia anisata is endemic to the southeastern United States, ranging from Georgia westward to southern Mississippi, including portions of the Florida panhandle. It occurs primarily in rich, mesic hardwood forests and woodland habitats.