Calycanthus floridus Carolina Allspice, Sweetshrub

FP095/FPS95 by Edward F. Gilman, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail HansenMarch 7, 2023This document provides an overview of the Sweetshrub (Calycanthus floridus), highlighting its characteristics, uses, and cultivation requirements. Sweetshrub is a native shrub known for its fragrant, maroon to brown flowers and aromatic leaves and fruits. It thrives in moist locations and can be used as an ornamental plant, screen, or specimen. The plant is adaptable to various soil types and light conditions, though it prefers moist soil and can grow in both sun and shade. Sweetshrub is not known to be invasive and is somewhat available, though it may require sourcing from outside the region. The document also discusses potential pests and diseases, such as bacterial crown gall and powdery mildew, and mentions two cultivars, ‘Athens’ and ‘Michael Lindsey’. Original publication date October 1999.