Carolina allspice - Calycanthus floridus (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Carolina allspice

Also known as: Common sweetshrub, Carolina spicebush

Carolina allspice (Calycanthus floridus) has reddish-brown flowers that have a captivating banana-strawberry fragrance. The leaves, when crushed, also have an exceedingly pleasant aroma. Both parts of the plant can be used to make potpourris. Even the bark exudes a pleasant smell.

Scientific classification

Species

Carolina allspice (Calycanthus floridus)

Laurels, spicebushes and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

1.8 m to 2.5 m

Plant Height

1.8 m to 3.5 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Gray, Gold, Silver

Leaf Color

4 cm to 7 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Green, Copper

Fruit Color

Red, Brown, Black

Flower Color

Red, Green, Silver, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Carolina allspice

Distribution of Carolina allspice

Distribution Map

Carolina allspice is native to the eastern United States and has spread to some adjacent parts of the United States, as well as Italy and Korea. It thrives in sunny areas, where the soil has moist and rich substrate, it will be easy to see on the edge of the woodland.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rich low shady woodlands, deciduous, mixed woodlands, along streams and rivers, margins of woodlands

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

As a specimen tree, carolina allspice grows tall and wide in partial shade. But it can also be cultivated in full sun, resulting in a shorter, more dense shrub suitable for hedges. Florists keep this plant for its greenery, which goes well in cut arrangements. It will even add color interest in autumn, when those leaves turn bright yellow. It combines beautifully with Hydrangeas.

Symbolism

Benevolence

Name Story

Carolina allspice: Allspice takes its name from its aroma, which smells like a combination of spices, especially cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg. Since Carolina is one of its origins, it is called Carolina allspice.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Carolina allspice, including the following common varieties :

Carolina allspice 'Aphrodite'Sweetshrub 'Venus'Sweetshrub 'Hartlage Wine'

Toxicity

The seeds of carolina allspice are toxic, containing harmful calycanthine. In humans and dogs, ingestion can cause convulsions, lowered blood pressure, and myocardial depression. Cats may experience physical discomfort if they eat large quantities of the seeds. Immediate veterinary care is essential if pets ingest carolina allspice. Children and pets should be kept away from this ornamental plant.

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Quickly Identify Carolina allspice

Oppositely arranged, grey-green leaves with pubescent undersides

Solitary maroon flowers with a fruit-like scent of pineapple, strawberry, and banana

Urns-shaped fruit with wrinkled, leathery exterior enclosing small achenes

Stem with a smooth, glabrous surface, emitting a distinctive aroma when bruised

Bark with thin texture, distinctive lenticels, and spicy fragrance upon disturbance

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Care Guide for Carolina allspice

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Carolina allspice thrives in a native environment with periods of moisture and dryness. It has moderate drought tolerance, requiring watering every 1-2 weeks with well-drained conditions. Typically grown outdoors, it benefits from natural rainfall and consistent moisture during the growing season for healthy leaf production.

Fertilize: For carolina allspice, use balanced fertilizers or high nitrogen types in early spring and possibly mid-summer. Avoid over-fertilization; usually, one annual application is sufficient for mature plants. Water thoroughly post-application to prevent root burn and ensure targeted nutrient distribution for healthy growth and blooms.

Pruning: Carolina allspice is a deciduous shrub with aromatic bark and maroon flowers. Prune in early spring by removing dead branches and thinning crowded areas for better air circulation. Regular pruning promotes flowering and enhances plant health. Refer to horticultural sources for improved techniques.

Propagation: Carolina allspice propagates effectively through division during spring or autumn. It requires moderate care, with successful outcomes indicated by new shoots and roots. Careful handling is essential when separating the root ball to ensure healthy growth.

Repotting: Repot carolina allspice every 2-3 years in early spring, using a container one size larger and ensuring good drainage. After repotting, water thoroughly and place carolina allspice in dappled sunlight to protect it during recovery, which promotes its characteristic fragrant blooms.

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