Common Name: Carolina allspice
Type: Deciduous shrub
Family: Calycanthaceae
Zone: 4 to 9
Height: 5.00 to 6.00 feet
Spread: 4.00 to 5.00 feet
Bloom Time: May to July
Bloom Description: Dark maroon
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Flower: Showy, Fragrant, Good Cut
Tolerate: Deer
Culture
Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerates close to full shade. Grows somewhat taller in shade than in sun. Tolerant of a wide range of soils, including clay, but prefers rich moist loams. Prune immediately after flowering to shape or maintain compactness. Remove root suckers promptly if naturalization is not desired.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Calycanthus is a genus of three species of deciduous shrubs, two native to North America and one native to China. The blooms of the North American species are highly fragrant. All species have aromatic leaves and stems when crushed.
Genus name comes from the Greek words kalyx meaning calyx and anthos meaning a flower.
Plants in the genus Calycanthus are commonly called sweetshrub or strawberry bush in reference to the fragrant blooms which are often described as combining hints of pineapple, strawberry and banana.
'SMNCAF' is a compact, hybrid sweetshrub selection that features highly fragrant, dark maroon colored blooms from late spring into summer. The flowers are described as having a fruity scent with hints of melon, banana, pineapple, and strawberry. Mature plants will reach up to 6' tall and 5' wide. Commonly sold at nurseries and garden centers under the name SIMPLY SCENTSATIONAL.
Problems
No serious insect or disease problems. Deer tend not to severely damage these plants.
Uses
Specimen near front door, patio or other living areas where the fragrant flower aroma may be enjoyed. Shrub borders. Foundations. Native plant areas. Suitable for use in fresh cut arrangements.