Carolina Allspice - Calycanthus floridus

Carolina Allspice is a deciduous shrub native to southeastern USA. It grows naturally in shaded woodlands and along the banks of streams and rivers. Another common name for this interesting shrub is ‘Strawberry Bush’ as its blooms are bright red in color and quite fragrant with the scent of pineapple, strawberry and banana.

It can reach heights of 12 ft tall with a similar or larger spread. This shrub spreads just as fast as it gains height, so be sure to plant this plant 3-5 ft from other individuals or other shrubs. In autumn, the lustrous, green leaves turn a lovely shade of pale yellow.

Plant Details - Carolina Allspice

Family: Calycanthaceae

Hardiness Zones: 4–9

Light Requirement: Full sun to partial shade

Water Needs: Moderate

Height: 6 - 9 ft

Spread: 6 - 12 ft

Growth Rate: Moderate

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Flower Color: Deep reddish-brown to maroon

Wildlife Value: Attracts pollinators

This shrub blooms profusely across the year. Blooming begins in early spring before leaves have emerged. It will then bloom as the leaves develop and sporadically after leaf expansion. The flowers are dark red in color, reaching 2 in in length. Once pollinated, urn-like fruit develop and mature to a dark brown color. The fruit persist on the plant through the winter.

The Carolina Allspice can be used a specimen or as a part of a mixed shrub border. To enjoy the fragrance, be sure to plant next to a deck or walkway. Not only is this shrub a showy yet humble deciduous beauty, its bark and roots have been used to make extracts to treat nerve pain, cramps and cold symptoms by indigenous tribes. However, it can be poisonous so do not try these methods without expert advice.

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Carolina Allspice

This shrub prefers rich, well-drained soil. It can tolerate periods of flooding however will not tolerate drought conditions. It can be planted in full sun to deeply shaded locations. For best flowering, be sure to plant in full sun.

It is virtually pest- and disease-free and low maintenance. However, to maintain a compact plant, prune immediately after flowering. If you desire to have a plant with a strong fragrance.

Make sure to purchase the plants in flower as each individual can vary widely when it comes to scent.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Profuse blooming, fragrant flowers, attractive to pollinators

This profusely flowering and fragrant native shrub will add a unique and mysterious beauty to your gardenscape. Shop for Carolina Allspice online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Summer

Bloom/Foliage Color

Red

Height at Maturity

Under 10 Feet

Care

Carolina Allspice flourishes in well-drained soil and benefits from regular watering, especially during dry spells. Light pruning after flowering helps maintain shape and promotes new growth. Spread mulch around the bottom to keep moisture and prevent weed growth.

Plant Reproduction

Carolina Allspice spreads through suckers and seeds.

Plant bare-root shrubs during the more excellent spring or fall months, from November through April. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root system and slightly more profound than its height. Position the shrub so that the top of the roots is level with the ground, and put back the soil dug over the roots. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, ensuring the mulch does not touch the shrub's stem. Water regularly, especially during the first year, to establish strong roots. Prune shrubs as needed to promote healthy growth. In the spring, fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer suited to the specific needs of the shrub.

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