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Description
Calycanthus Floridus Var. Glaucus is a deciduous flowering shrub that belongs to the family Calycanthaceae. It is also known as the Sweetshrub or Carolina Allspice. This plant is native to the southeastern United States and can grow up to 6-9 feet tall and wide. The Sweetshrub produces beautiful, fragrant flowers that bloom in early summer and last for several weeks. These flowers are unique and have a reddish-brown color, with a sweet, fruity scent that resembles a mix of pineapple, strawberry, and banana.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Calycanthales |
| Family | Calycanthaceae |
| Genus | Calycanthus |
Appearance
The Sweetshrub has an upright growth habit and can grow as a multi-stemmed shrub or small tree. Its leaves are oblong, glossy, and dark green, measuring about 4-8 inches long and 2-4 inches wide. The flowers of the Sweetshrub are unique and have a reddish-brown color that fades to a lighter shade over time. They measure about 1-2 inches in diameter and have a sweet, fruity fragrance. The plant produces small, brown, woody capsules that contain the seeds.
Care Guide
The Sweetshrub is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall.
- Soil: The Sweetshrub prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with compost before planting.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, but can tolerate some shade. Avoid planting in full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Sweetshrub is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sweetshrub is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause damage to the leaves and flowers of the plant. Treat with insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These tiny, sap-sucking pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Fungal Diseases: The plant may be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and other fungal diseases. Treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Sweetshrub is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in moist, well-drained soils in wooded areas, along streams, and in other damp locations. The plant is commonly found in the coastal plain from Virginia to Florida and as far west as Texas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Sweetshrub be pruned?
A: Yes, the Sweetshrub can be pruned in early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or diseased wood.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Sweetshrub?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Sweetshrub?
A: The Sweetshrub is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: Does the Sweetshrub attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Sweetshrub is a great plant for attracting butterflies, bees, and other pollinators to your garden.
Related Plants
- Calycanthus chinensis (Chinese Sweetshrub)
- Calycanthus floridus (Eastern Sweetshrub)
- Calycanthus occidentalis (Western Sweetshrub)
- Calycanthus raulstonii (Raulston Allspice)
References
- “Calycanthus floridus var. glaucus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c433.
- “Calycanthus Floridus.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/calycanthus-floridus/.
- “Calycanthus Floridus.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp633.
