Calycanthus Aphrodite (Sweetshrub)

Valued for the sweet, fruity fragrance of its flowers, Calycanthus ‘Aphrodite’ (Sweetshrub) is a compact, dense, multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub boasting large, fragrant, deep red flowers, 4 in. across (10 cm). Resembling magnolia blossoms, they are produced in abundance at the ends of short branchlets in late spring – early summer

Valued for the sweet, fruity fragrance of its flowers, Calycanthus 'Aphrodite' (Sweetshrub) is a compact, dense, multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub boasting large, fragrant, deep red flowers, 4 in. across (10 cm). Resembling magnolia blossoms, they are produced in abundance at the ends of short branchlets in late spring – early summer. The lustrous foliage of dark green oval leaves turns an attractive golden-yellow in fall. All plant parts are fragrant – including leaves, seed pods, and bark which exude a spicy scent when crushed.

  • Grows up to 5-8 ft. tall (150-240 cm) and 5-6 ft. wide (150-180 cm).
  • A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is best grown in moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils. Provide shelter from cold, drying winds.
  • Perfect as a specimen plant or in shrub borders, foundation plantings, and woodlands. Plant it where you will be able to enjoy its perfume daily: near a doorway, along a path, near your patio or deck. Flowers are long-lasting on the shrub and also make good cut flowers. They can also be dried and added to potpourri.
  • No serious insect or disease problems. Deer resistant!
  • No routine pruning is necessary. Remove diseased, damaged, congested, or crossing shoots.
  • Propagate by softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.

Requirements

Hardiness 5
– 9

Heat Zones 1
– 9

Climate Zones 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17
Plant Type Shrubs
Plant Family Calycanthus – Sweetshrubs
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)Summer (Early)Fall
Height 5'
– 8'
(150cm
– 240cm)
Spread 5'
– 6'
(150cm
– 180cm)
Spacing 72″
– 84″
(180cm
– 210cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Dried Arrangements, Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy
Tolerance Deer
Garden Uses Beds and Borders
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden