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Carolina Allspice

Carolina Allspice

Common Name: Carolina Allspice

Botanical Name: Calycanthus floridus

Carolina allspice with purple-pink blooms
Carolina allspice

Plant family: Calycanthaceae

Location: North Forest Trail

Growing zone: 4-9

Height: 6′-10′

Spread: 6′-12′

Bloom time: April, May, June, July

Bloom description: Deep rust-red flowers have petals that flare outward in a dazzling sun-shape. This plant is also commonly referred to as Sweetshrub or Strawberry Bush because the flowers are extremely aromatic.

Leaf type: Oblong leaves average about 6″ in length and are aromatic with a scent similar to that of the flowers in bloom.

Garden uses: This mid-large shrub is tolerant of a wide range of soils and is relatively low maintenance, making it a wonderful choice for many gardens and borders.