California allspice
Calycanthus occidentalis
Family: Calycanthaceae
What it is like
An evergreen shrub. It grows 3 m high and spreads 2 m wide. The stem is erect and branching. The leaves are oval and taper to the tip. They are green and 15 cm long. They are downy underneath. The flowers are red and 7.5 cm across. They have a scent.
There are 2 or 3-6 Calycanthus species. There are 4 genera in the Calycanthaceae.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It is best in a rich moist soil. It needs a protected partly shaded location. It is damaged by drought and frost.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Britain, Europe, Mexico, North America, Slovenia, USA (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
CAUTION: It is most likely poisonous. The bark is used as a spice.
Edible parts
Bark - spice
How it is grown
It can be grown by seed or cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Zahodni dišečnik