Contents
Description
Calycanthaceae, commonly known as sweetshrubs, is a family of flowering plants that are native to North America and Asia. They are deciduous or evergreen shrubs that produce fragrant flowers and are often planted for their ornamental value.The sweetshrubs are known for their distinctively aromatic bark, leaves, and flowers. The bark and leaves have a spicy or camphor-like scent, while the flowers emit a sweet, fruity fragrance that is often compared to strawberries, pineapples, or bananas.The family includes around 10 genera and 70 species, with the most well-known being Calycanthus floridus, also known as Carolina allspice or eastern sweetshrub.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Calycanthaceae |
| Genus | Calycanthus, Chimonanthus, Idiospermum, Sinocalycanthus, and others |
Appearance
Sweetshrubs are medium-sized shrubs that can grow up to 15 feet tall and wide. They have a dense, bushy habit and typically have multiple stems that arise from the base.The leaves are simple, opposite, and usually elliptical or ovate in shape. They are dark green and glossy on top, with a paler underside. Some species have leaves that turn yellow or red in the fall.The flowers are solitary or clustered at the tips of the branches, and are typically reddish-brown, maroon, or purple in color. They have a unique structure, with numerous petals and sepals that are arranged in a spiral fashion around a central cone-like structure.
Care Guide
Sweetshrubs are generally easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of soil types and light conditions. Here are some tips for keeping your sweetshrubs healthy and happy:- Water: Sweetshrubs prefer moist, well-draining soil. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: Sweetshrubs are adaptable to many soil types, but prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil. They can tolerate some drought and salt spray.- Sunlight: Sweetshrubs can tolerate partial shade to full sun, but they bloom best in full sun.- Hardiness Zones: Sweetshrubs are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sweetshrubs are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to some problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect sweetshrubs:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing or stippling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Leaf spots: Fungal diseases can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove and dispose of infected leaves, and avoid overhead watering.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing or distortion of the leaves. They can be controlled with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Sweetshrubs are native to a wide range of habitats, from moist woodlands to dry prairies. They are found in North America and Asia, and are particularly common in the southeastern United States.They are often planted as ornamental shrubs in gardens and parks, and are valued for their fragrant flowers and attractive foliage.
Question and Answer
Q: Are sweetshrubs deer-resistant?
A: Yes, sweetshrubs are generally deer-resistant due to their aromatic foliage.
Q: Can sweetshrubs be grown in containers?
A: Yes, sweetshrubs can be grown in containers as long as they are provided with adequate soil, water, and light.
Q: Do sweetshrubs attract pollinators?
A: Yes, sweetshrubs are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How often should sweetshrubs be pruned?
A: Sweetshrubs can be pruned in early spring or after flowering to control their size and shape. Remove any dead or diseased branches, and thin out crowded growth.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are related to sweetshrubs:- Lauraceae (laurel family)- Sassafras albidum (sassafras)- Lindera benzoin (spicebush)- Liriodendron tulipifera (tulip tree)- Magnolia spp. (magnolias)
References
– “Calycanthaceae.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 17 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n680– “Calycanthaceae.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 17 May 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30000046-2– Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press, 2011.- Gilman, Edward F. “Calycanthus floridus.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 17 May 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP606
