This hybrid sweet deciduous shrub also known as ‘Carolina allspice’ is a striking, long flowering plant that always draws plenty of interest, including wildlife being a pollinator. The lightly scented wine red flowers can grow up to 12 centimetres in diameter and have a touch of cream in the centre. They bloom from late spring to early autumn and then the leaves turn butter-yellow in autumn before falling off in winter.
Fact File
Sun Requirements: They will thrive in either full to partial sun.
Soil: Can tolerate all types of soil ensuring it is well drained.
Hardiness: Hardy.
Size: Can grow up to 3 metres high and up to 3 metres spread.
Growing Guide
Planting
This plant is best grown in humus rich, moist and well drained soil as well as being sheltered from the winds. It will thrive in most soils; chalk, clay, loam or sand especially when you add some organic matter or mulch. Ensure you plant these with at 2.5-3m spacing in between plants. Will look stunning in any bed or border ideally next to a fence or wall.
Watering
Water these regularly, whilst making sure not to over water as to avoid them being waterlogged.
Pruning
The Calycanthus will benefit from some light pruning in either early spring or late autumn immediately after flowering. This will improve the overall health as well as help keep the shrub compact and manageable for smaller spaces.
Planting Ideas
One of the best choices to plant with the Calycanthus is a Geranium or a Philadelphus, as these thrive in similar settings and complement it’s surroundings with it’s aroma, foliage and blooms.
Fact
This shrub received the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the RHS.
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