Sheffield's Seed Company Page

Discover the charm of Chimonanthus praecox, known more commonly as Wintersweet or Japanese allspice. This fragrant, deciduous shrub, native to forested areas of China, brings an artistic flair to any garden, growing up to 10-15’ tall and expanding 8-12’ wide. Epitomizing the magic of winter, Wintersweet blooms in the colder months from December to March, showcasing intricate flowers with sulfur yellow to pale yellow tepals, beautifully contrasted by a purplish-brown center. Crisp yet glossy green leaves appear in spring, after the flowers have bloomed, and turn yellow in fall. Wintersweet fares best in USDA Zones 7-9 and thrives in moist, fertile, well-drained soils under full sun, although it requires a protected location in zones 6 and 7. It might take around 5-10 years to bloom when grown from seeds, but the wait is definitely worth it! Its sweet, fragrant flowers make it an enchanting shrub to be enjoyed during the long winter months, perfect for open gardens, shrub borders or near entrance ways. Take note of the plant's medicinal value and its essential oils use in cosmetics, perfumery and tea flavoring. Revel in winter with Wintersweet!