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Description
Calycanthus Chinensis, commonly known as Chinese sweetshrub or Chinese allspice, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Calycanthaceae family. This plant is native to China and can grow up to 6-8 feet tall and wide. The Chinese sweetshrub is known for its sweet and spicy fragrance, which is why it is often used in perfumes and aromatherapy. The leaves of Calycanthus Chinensis are oval-shaped, dark green, and glossy, while the flowers are bell-shaped and range from reddish-brown to maroon in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota ||—-|—-|| Kingdom | Plantae || Phylum | Magnoliophyta || Class | Magnoliopsida || Order | Laurales || Family | Calycanthaceae || Genus | Calycanthus || Species | Calycanthus Chinensis |
Appearance
Calycanthus Chinensis is a deciduous shrub with an upright habit that can grow up to 6-8 feet tall and wide. The leaves of this plant are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped, with a length of up to 5 inches. The flowers of Calycanthus Chinensis are bell-shaped and range from reddish-brown to maroon in color. The flowers have a sweet and spicy fragrance that is reminiscent of cinnamon and cloves. The blooming period of this plant is from late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
To ensure the healthy growth of Calycanthus Chinensis, follow these care guidelines:Water: Calycanthus Chinensis prefers well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. Water the plant deeply at least once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the fall and winter.Fertilization: Fertilize Calycanthus Chinensis in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.Soil: Calycanthus Chinensis prefers moist, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve drainage and soil structure.Sunlight: Calycanthus Chinensis prefers partial shade to full sun. However, it can tolerate full shade.Hardiness Zones: Calycanthus Chinensis is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Calycanthus Chinensis is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure proper air circulation around the plant. Aphids and spider mites can also infest Calycanthus Chinensis, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Calycanthus Chinensis is native to China and can be found growing in woodlands, thickets, and along streams. This plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Calycanthus Chinensis tolerate drought?
A: No, Calycanthus Chinensis prefers consistently moist soil.Q: How often should I fertilize Calycanthus Chinensis?
A: Fertilize Calycanthus Chinensis in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.Q: Is Calycanthus Chinensis susceptible to fungal diseases?
A: Yes, Calycanthus Chinensis can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot.Q: What is the blooming period of Calycanthus Chinensis?
A: The blooming period of Calycanthus Chinensis is from late spring to early summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Calycanthus Chinensis:- Calycanthus floridus (Eastern sweetshrub)- Calycanthus occidentalis (Western sweetshrub)- Calycanthus x raulstonii ‘Hartlage Wine’ (Hartlage wine sweetshrub)
References
– “Calycanthus chinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 June 2021.- “Calycanthus chinensis.” Plant Finder. Accessed 22 June 2021.- “Calycanthus chinensis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 June 2021.
