Calycanthus Venus - Carolina Allspice

Calycanthus Venus or Sweetshrub Venus
Calycanthus Venus, also referred to as Sweetshrub Venus or Carolina Allspice, is a deciduous shrub that grows to a height of 2.5 to 4 meters and a width of 2.5 to 4 meters. The foliage is truly large and eye-catching. Each oblong leaf measures up to 15 centimetres in length. During the autumn, the leaves turn a brilliant hue of yellow. The foliage and flowers are somewhat deer and rabbit resistant. When the spring weather starts to warm up the atmosphere, Sweetshrub Venus develops a bevy of buds. The buds are plump and light green in colour. From late spring well into summer, Calycanthus Venus produces a virtually non-stop display of flowers. The flowers are reminiscent of the blooms found on a magnolia tree. Each large, cup-shaped flower is highly fragrant. Many people say that the blooms smell like a combination of watermelon and strawberry. The blooms are white with yellow and purple centres. The petals are strap like, large, and appear warlike. 

For best growth, plant Sweetshrub Venus in a location that offers full sun or partial shade. However, in areas with very hot summers it is preferable to plant the shrub in partial shade to prevent the leaves from developing a brown margin from too much sun exposure. Avoid planting the shrub in full shade or it tends to grow in a vine like fashion and bear very few, if any, flowers. In windy areas, pick a sheltered location to protect the shrub from cold or drying winds. 

Choose a planting site for the Calycanthus Venus that is well-draining with ample organic material. Unlike many shrubs, it will survive in clay. It grows well in acidic or neutral soil. During the first year, keep the soil moist but not overly saturated to encourage ample root growth. After the first year, Carolina Allspice is relatively drought tolerant but the foliage will dry out and turn brown around the margins if exposed to the parched soil for very long. 

Sweetshrub Venus can be pruned to maintain its overall size and shape. Old shoots may be cut to the ground to encourage new growth. Pruning the ends of new shoots promotes branching growth. It features a moderate growth rate. Carolina Allspice typically takes five to ten years to reach its full growth potential. 

Plant Sweetshrub Venus in an area of the landscape where its foliage and blooms can be appreciated. It makes an ideal specimen shrub or can be grouped to create a large display. Calycanthus Venus looks fantastic in a cottage garden or formal landscape.