Californian Allspice, Western sweetshrub
Calycanthus occidentalis

Family: Calycanthaceae

What it is like

Calycanthus occidentalis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from June to September, and the seeds ripen from October to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 3

Where it is found

Banks of streams, ponds and other wet places below 1200 metres.

South-western N. America - California.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Mexico, North America, USA*,

How it is used

Food

Rating: 3

The aromatic bark is dried and used as a substitute for cinnamon and all spice. Some caution is advised, see reports above on toxicity.

Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.

Medicine

Rating: 1

The bark is expectorant. A decoction of the fresh or dried bark has been used in the treatment of sore throats, severe colds and stomach disorders.

Expectorant: Clears phlegm from the chest by inducing coughing.

Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.

Other

Rating: 2

A light brown dye is obtained from the flowers. The wood and the bark from fresh shoots has been used in basket making.

Basketry: Plant used in making baskets and other items such as chairs. Includes plants that are only used as an ornamental addition.

Dye: Plants that provide dyes.

Food Forest: Plants for Edible Forest Gardens and Food Forests.

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Prefers a light loamy soil that is deep and moist but succeeds in most fertile soils if they are not shallow. Requires a well-drained soil. Prefers a sunny position but it tolerates shade when grown in warm temperate zones. Requires a sheltered position, protected from cold winds. Plants are hardy to about -15°c. The leaves and the flowers are very aromatic according to one report, whilst another says that the leaves and wood are pleasantly aromatic, whilst the flowers have no scent. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. If the seed is harvested 'green' (as soon as it has fully developed but before it has dried on the plant) and sown immediately it can germinate in 3 weeks. Dried seed germinates in 1 - 6 months at 15°c. Stored seed requires between 3 weeks and 3 months cold stratification before sowing in the spring. When large enough to handle, prick out the seedlings into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. They can be difficult. Layering in spring. Sever the new plants in a wet spell of weather about 15 months later and then lift them in the autumn. High percentage. Division of suckers in early spring. Very easy, they can be planted straight out into their permanent positions if required.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 6-9

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Calycanthus contains calycanthine, an alkaloid similar to strychnine, and it is toxic to humans and livestock.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

C. macrophyllus.