Calycanthus floridus – Carolina All-Spice, Strawberry Shrub, Sweetshrub

General Information: Carolina All-Spice is a striking and useful shrub with large, unique, ornate, deep-maroon buds forming in late spring. The flowers appeal just as much during the bud stage as they do fully opened. Upon opening they fill the air with a fragrance much like a Strawberry. The perfect choice for those who appreciate organic scents – the flowers have hints of Pineapple, Strawberry, and Banana, the crushed leaves impart a Lemon-like fragrance, while the bark has a much spicier scent with hints of Cinnamon and Incense. The distinct flowers appear successively, with a steady flow of new buds and flowers blooming over the course of a month. When planted near doorways or porches, the scent can be enjoyed when windows are opened during the first warm days of the year, and will certainly not disappoint.

Edible Qualities: The edible twigs and bark can be dried and powdered and used in a similar fashion to Cinnamon. The crushed leaves repel flying insects.

Cultivation Details: Naturally deer resistant and native to the Eastern U.S., Carolina All-Spice is quite at home here at our farm just north of the plant’s native range. The shrub canopy will spread nicely and easily, and can be shaped and maintained in smaller spaces. Alternatively the plant serves as a privacy screen, a hedge plant, a specimen plant, a foundation plant, or as part of a wind break. These plants are disease and pest-resistant.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun to dappled shade. Tolerates most soil types. Prefers moist to wet, well-drained soils. Suitable for mildly acidic, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils.