Calycanthus occidentalis
Spice Bush
Description
A large, fast deciduous shrub growing to 12' tall and 15' wide, the Spice Bush bears large green leaves and small, dull red magnolia-like flowers with narrow petals. Its leaves are fragrant when crushed. The plant should be grown in partial sun or shade, with average to little summer watering and good drainage. -Monterey Bay Nursery
Plant Type
Shrub
Height Range
6-12'
Flower Color
Red
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Green
Bark Color
Brown
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
Summer
Sun
Half, Shade
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Rich, Well-drained, Moist
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Wetlands, Woodland
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer
Location Uses
Background, Park, With Rocks
Special Uses
Screen
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Consider replacing some lawn areas with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs.
Good candidates for removal are portions of large lawns, areas where no one uses the grass, patches that don't grow well, or spaces too small to water without overspray.