This deciduous shrub has the strangest loveliest flowers, which are quite fragrant and bloom here in central Virginia in the mid-late spring. Crushing the leaves also gives a spicy scent, hence the alternative name “Carolina Allspice.” This is a really cool shrub that can tolerate shade and sun, however the shape of the plant changes depending on light conditions. In the fall the leaves turn yellow
Alternate Names: Eastern Sweetshrub, Carolina Allspice Family: Calycanthaceae – Strawberry-shrub family Habitat: Well drained soil, sun or shade Identifiers: Blooming Early May
Description: From the Wildflower Database
Eastern sweetshrub is a 6-12 ft., deciduous shrub with glossy, aromatic, leathery, dark-green foliage. Its with erect, multiple stems create a rounded outline. Terminal blossoms are solitary and dark red with numerous overlapping, strap-like petals. Flower are often quite fragrant. Leaves become yellow in fall but are usually not showy.
Calycanthus floridus is very resistant to disease and insect problems. It has a prolific suckering habit, adapts to many soils, and grows taller in shaded places.
