Carolina Allspice

Calycanthus floridus (kal-ee-KAN-thus FLOR-id-us)

Family: Calycanthaceae Native Shrub (3-15 ft)

Carolina allspice is an erect to rounded deciduous native shrub in the sweetshrub family (Calycanthaceae). It is found in the Southeast in shady woodlands and along streambanks. The genus name derives from the Greek words kaylx, which means "calyx," and anthos, which means "flower," referring to the fact that the sepals (calyx) are indistinguishable from the petals. The species epithet is Latin for “flowering.” Carolina allspice grows best in average to rich, well-drained soil in anywhere from full sun to deep shade. It prefers some shade in hot summer afternoons, and it will grow lankier and less dense in shade than in sun. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil textures and pH but prefers rich loams. It can tolerate brief periods of flooding, but it struggles in sandy soil and drought conditions. Plant it at least 6 feet from other shrubs to give it adequate room to grow. It blooms in early spring before leaves emerge, with the leaves, and sporadically thereafter. It grows 6 to 12 feet tall with an equal or slightly greater spread. The fragrance of the showy blooms has been described as combining hints of pineapple, strawberry and banana. The aroma is stronger in higher temperatures, and it is best to purchase the plant in flower, as the fragrances vary widely. Prune immediately after flowering to shape or maintain compactness. It has a suckering habit, and those suckering branches need to be eliminated unless you want this plant to naturalize in your landscape. Note that next season's flowers are produced on new and old wood. Propagate this plant by seed. It withstands cold and heat, insect and disease pests, fire, and deer browsing. Plant it as a specimen or near a patio or walkway to enjoy its fragrance. It makes a good screen or privacy hedge, a shrub for the back of the border or a foundation planting. Consider this native in your cutting, sensory, or woodland garden. Fire Risk: This plant has a low flammability rating. Quick ID Hints : Solitary maroon flowers on short axillary shoots Bark of deciduous shrub is aromatic when bruised Flowers are fruit-scented Leaves are opposite, grey-green & pubescent underneath Fruits are leathery, open flasks that dangle and drop seeds Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Relatively pest- and disease-free.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ Reconciled to full toolbox: matched by slug to slug 'calycanthus-floridus'. Identity (id/common/scientific name) preserved from the original 87-plant Hunnicutt set; attribute data refreshed from the 80-attribute toolbox scrape.