Species Carolina allspice
Deep-red-brown flowers and dark-green leaves with green stem.

Carolina allspice

Calycanthus floridus

Carolina allspice is an amazing shrub that is native to the eastern United States. This deciduous shrub has a sweet, spicy like fragrance that can be found near stream banks, and forests in the southeastern region. The large, deep green leaves of the Carolina allspice turn yellow and orange in the fall. The showy, fragrant flowers of this shrub begin to develop mid-spring and range from deep red to pink. This flowering shrub also produces dark blue, tomato-like fruits filled with several seeds. The Carolina allspice is a great addition to any garden because of its beauty, fragrance and hardiness, making it an excellent choice for any landscape.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Seed Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 9

Flowers:

Brown Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Fruits:

red,brown Fruits Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Carolina allspice can thrive in moist, well-draining, acidic soil with plenty of organic matter. It should be watered regularly, about once per week for new plants and established plants. The amount of water depends on the type of soil you have; sandy, well-draining soils should receive 1-2 inches of water per week, while heavier, clay soil may need up to 3 inches of water per week. Water until the ground is saturated, but not so much that puddles form. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings; do not keep the soil constantly wet, as this can cause root rot. During periods of extended drought, increase watering as needed to prevent the plant from going into distress.

sunlight

Carolina allspice (Calycanthus floridus) requires full sun for optimal growth and flowering. It typically does best with 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. When grown in areas where it does not get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, it will tend to form a more open, leggy habit and will not flower as prolifically. During the summer months, Carolina allspice should be located in a sunny spot to ensure that it receives the amount of light it needs. However, in areas with very hot summers, some afternoon shade can help protect it from the intense heat.

pruning

Carolina allspice should be pruned annually in late winter to ensure optimal health and shape. When pruning, cutting branches and removing dead or damaged wood is critical to allow for more air circulation and to remove any blighted areas. Additionally, pruning will reduce the size of the shrub and help to encourage more flowering. Before pruning, remove any weeds or debris from the base of the plant. Begin pruning by taking out any dead or damaged branches. Next, trim branches slightly larger than 1/4-inch (6 millimeters) in diameter until the desired shape is achieved. When finished, clean up all pruning debris and cut any remaining branches at least ½ inch (13 millimeters) above the collar. With proper pruning, Carolina allspice can make a beautiful addition to any landscape!

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Calycanthus floridus typically starts flowering in late April or early May.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Calycanthus floridus typically begins in late June and continues through August.

Hardiness Map