Sweet Shrub or Spice Bush
Calycanthus floridus
Planted 2011
The Sweet Shrub is popular for its fragrant blooms, which have been described as smelling like pineapple, strawberries, and bananas. It is best to shop for these plants when they are in bloom because the scent is variable and can even be lacking. It struggles in drought, but tolerates various soils and pHs.
| Height | Width | Zone | Growth Rate | Water Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 ft. | 7 ft. | 4-9 | Medium | Medium |
Leaf
Opposite, simple, ovate. Leathery and aromatic when bruised. Dark green with a gold color in the fall.
Fruit
Capsule, brown, wrinkly, and leathery. Present August-September.
Flower
Red, fragrant, and saucer shaped. Blooms in spring, April-May.
Advantages
Can grow in full sun to full shade, tolerant of various soils and pHs.
Disadvantages
Some suckering, struggles in drought conditions.