Carolina allspice (Calycanthus floridus) kal-ih-CAN-thus FLOOR-ih-dus Genus:  Calycanthus

This deciduous shrub has a dense, rounded habit, growing 6 to 9 feet tall and as wide. Its unusual, waterlily-like, fragrant flowers combine the scent of strawberries, banana, and pineapple. Flowers appear in May and continuing blooming on and off into June and July. The dark green leaves and bark release a clove or camphor-like scent when crushed.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Highly adaptable to many soil types and grows in sun or shade, though it blooms more when grown in full sun. Native from Virginia to Florida.

Care: 

Grow in full sun or part shade (in warmer climates) and moist, fertile, organically rich soil.

Propagation: 

Root softwood cuttings in summer or remove suckers in spring.

Problems: 

Fungal leaf spots, powdery mildew, and dieback.

Overview

Height 6 ft. to 10 ft. Spread 6 ft. to 10 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Song Birds, Fragrant Flowers, Fragrant Foliage, Interesting Bark, Native, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Spring, Summer Flower Color Red Uses Beds and Borders, Specimen Plant/Focal Point Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Shrubs