September Shrub of the Month-Carolina allspice

With a common name as beautiful and intriguing as Carolina allspice, you’d think it would be more popular. Sadly, it’s another underused and underappreciated shrub that I hope this article will help change. Plant geeks usually discover Carolina allspice, Calycanthus floridus fairly early. The fruity-fragrant maroon flowers and the ‘scratch-n-sniff’ stems make it memorable, as do the fun dried fruits that make a noise like a baby rattle when given a shake. I assume it’s more popular in the Southeastern United States where it’s native, but I have seen it thrive in St. Louis and as far north as Omaha, Nebraska.

The deciduous Calycanthus has no serious pests or disease, even deer seem indifferent to it with only an occasional nibble, and it tolerates most soils except drought conditions. Calycanthus prefers dappled shade but will tolerate full sun to full shade. The fall color is an intense yellow.  

Perhaps it’s the size that scares away most typical homeowners. It can grow 6-12′ high and wide and tends to colonize with suckers. It will fit right in if placed in a natural setting like the edge of woodland or along the back of a larger yard or garden bed. Place it right next to your front walkway, and you will have problems. It all comes down to the adage, “Right plant, right place.” So, bear in mind the MATURE size-not the size in the 1-gallon pot you just purchased! Plant accordingly to avoid unnecessary pruning, but still enjoy the fragrance and unique flower.

A few cultivars are available:

‘Aphrodite’ has bright red flowers and grows slightly shorter at 4-6′.

‘Athens’ has white flowers and grows to 6.’

“Hartlage Wine’ has larger wine-colored flower petals.

What I love about this plant:

-It’s unique, fragrant flowers. The scent is strongest on the first day of bloom, then diminishes.

-The fun, dried fruit that “rattle.”

-The resistance to pests, disease, and deer.

-The decent fall color.

What’s not so great:

–It will sucker and form colonies-not a problem in the right place.

-It can get large-again, not a problem in the right place!

-The seeds are considered toxic with low severity.

Words and photos by Jo Batzer

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