Calycanthus Floridus

2-3 Litre pot

• Position: Full sun / partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well drained
• Growth Rate: Average
• Flowering Period: June – July
• Hardiness: H6
• Eventual Height: 2.5 metres
• Eventual Spread: 3 metres

Calycanthus floridus, also known as the ‘Caroline Allspice’ is a beautiful and hardy deciduous shrub that is native to the eastern United States. It is known for its large, fragrant red lily like flowers that bloom in the Spring and Summer, making it a popular choice for gardeners in the UK.

This shrub can grow up to 2-3 meters tall and wide, and it prefers full sun to partial shade. It is tolerant of a variety of soil types and can adapt to a range of conditions. It is a great choice for mixed borders, or as a standalone specimen in the garden.

One of the key features of Calycanthus Floridus is its large, fragrant flowers and is also attractive to bees and butterflies and other pollinators.

In terms of pruning, the ‘Caroline Allspice’ does not require much maintenance. However, it can be pruned after flowering to control its size or shape if desired.

Calycanthus Floridus is not a very well-known plant in the UK and Europe, and it was first introduced as an ornamental plant in the late 18th century. It is a rare and little-cultivated species but it is becoming more popular among gardeners and landscapers due to its large and fragrant flowers, that bloom in the Spring and Summer and its adaptability to different soil types and climates.

How to care for your Calycanthus Floridus

1. Soil: Prefers well-drained, moist soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 7.5. It is tolerant of a variety of soil types but prefers a soil that is rich in organic matter.
2. Watering: Prefers consistently moist soil but it should not be waterlogged. Water your plant regularly, especially during dry spells, to ensure that the soil remains consistently moist.
3. Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It does well in locations that receive morning sun and afternoon shade.
4. Fertilising: Does not require much fertilisation. If you want to promote more blooms, you can apply a balanced fertiliser in the Spring.
5. Pruning: Does not require much pruning. However, you can cut back the foliage after it dies back to the ground in Autumn or early Spring to tidy up the plant.