Calycanthus floridus - Shrub - Carolina Allspice, Common Sweetshrub, Eastern Sweetshrub Page

Discover the captivating allure of Calycanthus floridus, commonly known as Carolina Allspice or Eastern Sweetshrub. This deciduous shrub, native to the southeastern United States, adds charm and fragrance to shady woodlands and streambanks with its unique flowers. Renowned for its aromatic blooms that exude hints of pineapple, strawberry, and banana, this plant becomes more fragrant in warmer temperatures, making it a sensory delight in any garden. Its Greek-derived name, combining "calyx" and "flower," speaks to its botanical elegance.

Growing between 6-12 feet tall, Carolina Allspice thrives in a range of soils from full sun to deep shade, preferring some respite from harsh summer afternoons. While tolerant of various soil textures, it flourishes in rich loams. Ideal for garden landscapes, its suckering habit and adaptability make it perfect for naturalizing spaces, creating privacy screens, foundation plantings, or enhancing shrub borders. To maintain its form, prune post-blooming and enjoy its sporadic flowering throughout the season. Resilient against cold, heat, and pests, this durable shrub is a remarkable addition to sensory, cutting, or woodland gardens, offering beauty and fragrance year-round.