Calycanthus floridus

Calycanthus floridus, commonly referred to as Carolina Allspice or Eastern Sweetshrub, is a dense, deciduous shrub with multi-season interest. Maroon-velvet, magnolia-like flowers begin blooming in April and last through to July. The glossy green, oval shaped leaves with pointed tips turn golden yellow in the autumn. Brown, urn-shaped seed capsules mature in the fall and persist into winter.

Carolina Allspice is aptly named as all parts of the shrub are scented. The flowers are very fragrant, with hints of strawberry, pineapple, banana, and cinnamon all rolled into one. Both Sweet Shrub leaves and bark have their own spicy scents. Dry them along with the flowers to make potpourri.

Calycanthus floridus is a lovely small specimen with a rounded habit, a height of 5.5 feet and width of 6.5 feet. Easy to grow, this interesting shrub does well in sun to partial shade, and dry to moist, well-drained soils. Add multi-season colour and fragrance to your garden with Carolina Allspice!