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Description
Calycanthus Floridus, commonly known as the sweetshrub, is a deciduous shrub native to the southeastern United States. Its genus name, Calycanthus, is derived from the Greek words kalos, meaning beautiful, and anthos, meaning flower. The plant produces fragrant, reddish-brown flowers that resemble small magnolias and bloom from late spring to early summer. The leaves are dark green and glossy and turn yellow in the fall, adding to the plant’s ornamental value. The sweetshrub’s bark is also distinctive, with a reddish-brown color and a spicy fragrance when crushed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Calycanthales |
| Family: | Calycanthaceae |
| Genus: | Calycanthus |
Appearance
The sweetshrub can reach a height of 6 to 9 feet and a spread of 6 to 12 feet. Its flowers are approximately 2 inches in diameter and have a pleasant fragrance that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. The plant’s leaves are oval-shaped and measure up to 6 inches long. The bark is smooth and reddish-brown, with a cinnamon-like scent. The sweetshrub’s overall appearance is compact and bushy, making it an excellent choice for borders or as a specimen plant.
Care Guide
The sweetshrub is relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: The sweetshrub prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before the plant begins to grow. Repeat the application in late spring or early summer for optimal growth.
- Soil: The sweetshrub prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or compacted, amend it with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
- Sunlight: The sweetshrub can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun to promote maximum bloom production.
- Hardiness Zones: The sweetshrub can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The sweetshrub is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids, scale, or spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and well-maintained by following the care guide above. If you do notice an infestation, treat it with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The sweetshrub may also be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil, so make sure to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Habitat
The sweetshrub is native to the southeastern United States and can be found growing naturally in woodlands, along stream banks, and in moist areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. The plant is also drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the sweetshrub be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the sweetshrub can be grown in containers as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Make sure to use a well-draining soil mix and water the plant regularly to prevent it from drying out.Q: Does the sweetshrub attract bees?
A: While the sweetshrub’s flowers are not particularly attractive to bees, they do attract butterflies and hummingbirds.Q: How often should I prune my sweetshrub?
A: Pruning is not necessary for the sweetshrub, but if you want to shape the plant, do so immediately after blooming.Q: Can the sweetshrub tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, the sweetshrub can tolerate cold temperatures down to -10 degrees Fahrenheit when properly established.
Related Plants
- Calycanthus occidentalis (western sweetshrub)
- Calycanthus chinensis (Chinese sweetshrub)
- Calycanthus raulstonii (Raulston allspice)
- Calycanthus x ‘Hartlage Wine’ (Hartlage Wine sweetshrub)
References
- “Calycanthus Floridus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c730.
- “Calycanthus Floridus.” NC State Extension. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/calycanthus-floridus/.
- “Sweetshrub.” The Spruce. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/growing-calycanthus-3269263.
