About the Sweetshrub :
The Sweetshrub, Calycanthus floridus, or Carolina
allspice is a dense, rounded deciduous shrub with a
suckering habit which grows 6-9' tall with an equal
or slightly greater spread. It features very
fragrant, brown to reddish-brown flowers (2" across)
which bloom at the ends of short branchlets in May.
Flowers give way to brownish, urn-shaped fruits
(seed capsules) which mature in fall and persist
throughout the winter. Lustrous, dark green (pale
beneath), ovate to elliptic leaves to 6" long turn
golden yellow in fall. Leaves are aromatic when
bruised.
Also commonly called sweetshrub and strawberry
bush because of the reference to the fragrant blooms
which have been described as combining hints of
pineapple, strawberry and banana. Another common
name is hairy allspice which is in reference to the
hairy twigs and leaf undersides of this plant. It is
easily grown in average, medium wet, well-drained
soil in full sun to part shade. It grows somewhat
taller in shade than in sun, and it is tolerant of a
wide range of soils, but prefers rich loam. Prune
immediately after flowering to shape or maintain
compactness. Remove root suckers promptly if
naturalization is not desired. Use as a specimen
near front door, patio or other living areas where
the fragrant flower aroma may be enjoyed. It is
utilized for shrub borders, foundations, and native
plant areas.
