Promising Plants Profiles

Calycanthus floridus 'Michael Lindsey'

Genus: Calycanthus
Specific Epithet: floridus
Cultivar Name: 'Michael Lindsey'
Family: Calycanthaceae

Flower Color: maroon-chestnut
Form: deciduous shrub
Hardiness Zone: 4-7
Height: 3-9'
Soil: well-drained soil enriched with organic matter
Sun: partial shade or sun

Uses: ornamental, medicinal, insect repellent, culinary (limited)*
Parts Used: primarily bark and root, but leaves reportedly have insect repellent properties

"The species Calycanthus floridus (Carolina allspice) pales in comparison with this selection by Michael Lindsey. It is a deciduous shrub with dark glossy green foliage and dark maroon-chestnut colored flowers, which have a clove-like scent in the afternoon. I grow it in part sun, and it has now reached a height of 5 feet by 5 feet after 8 years. I live in Zone 7 where it is almost evergreen." – Andy van Hevelingen, Promising Plants Presentation, 2004

* The bark of C. floridus has been used as a spice, but the plant is not considered GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe). The species is reportedly toxic to grazing sheep and cattle, due primarily to toxic alkaloids in the fruits.

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