Carolina Allspice

Carolina Allspice For Sale

Carolina Allspice is a deciduous shrub native to the 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 and quite fragrant with the scent of pineapple, strawberry, and banana.

It can reach 12 feet 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 Plants

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 throughout 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 and reach 2 in in length. Once pollinated, the urn-like fruit grows and matures to a dark brown color. The fruit persists on the plant through the winter.

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

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Carolina Allspice Plants

This shrub prefers rich, well-drained soil. It can tolerate periods of flooding, but 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 a plant with a strong fragrance.Make sure to purchase the plants in flower, as each individual can vary widely regarding scent.

Noteworthy Characteristics of Carolina Allspice Plants

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.

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Shrubs

Bare root shrubs are a budget-friendly and efficient way to plant during the cooler months when they’re dormant. Before planting, soak the roots in water for 3–6 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a site with the appropriate light exposure for the species—most flowering shrubs prefer full to partial sun. Dig a hole wide enough to spread out the roots and deep enough so the crown (where the roots meet the stems) sits level with the soil surface.

Mound a bit of soil at the bottom of the hole, spread the roots over it, and backfill with native soil while gently firming it to remove air pockets. Water deeply after planting to settle the roots. Keep the soil moist but not soggy during the first growing season to encourage healthy establishment.

Mulch around the base (not touching the stems) to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune lightly to remove any broken branches and to shape after the first flush of growth. With minimal care, bare root shrubs will leaf out beautifully and grow into reliable, long-term landscape anchors.

We carefully package every plant to retain superior moisture during transit. Once prepared, orders ship the same day through UPS or USPS, with typical delivery in 2–4 days.

Returns are not accepted, but plants are reshipped if extended warranty insurance was purchased at checkout. Otherwise, all plants include a standard 5-day warranty after delivery.