How to Grow Sweetshrub
Calycanthus floridus
Sweetshrub is an adaptable, low-maintenance deciduous shrub grown for its spicy fragrance and unusual maroon flowers from late spring to midsummer. It tolerates a wide range of soils including clay and occasional wet conditions, and thrives in sun to part shade. Plant in autumn or spring, mulch generously, and prune immediately after flowering by removing the oldest third of stems. Remove root suckers to keep spread in check. Seeds are mildly toxic.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Spring with a balanced fertiliser. Low feeding needs overall — a mulch of compost is often sufficient.
Watch For
- Aphids (occasional)
- Scale insects
- No serious disease problems
Companions
Hydrangea, Ferns, Hostas, Astilbe
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun to part shade
Flowers most freely in full sun but tolerates part shade well. In deep shade it becomes leggy and flowers less. Morning sun with afternoon shade suits it in hot climates.
Watering
Average moisture; tolerates occasional wet soil
Prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil. Unlike many shrubs it tolerates temporary wet conditions and clay. Drought-tolerant once established but performs better with regular moisture.
Fertilizing
Light spring feed; often mulch is enough
Low nutrient requirements. An annual top-dressing of compost or a light balanced fertiliser in spring is sufficient. Over-feeding produces lush growth with fewer flowers.
Pruning
Remove oldest third of stems after flowering
Prune immediately after flowering. Cut one third of the oldest, woodiest stems to the base to stimulate fresh growth and maintain an open, vigorous structure. Remove suckers unless naturalization is desired.
Spacing
240-300 cm apart
Allow for the suckering spread. Plant 240 cm apart minimum, or up to 300 cm for isolated specimens. Regular sucker removal confines it to the original footprint.
