Sweetshrub
Calycanthus floridus
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jun 14, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Sweetshrub
Sweetshrub (Calycanthus floridus) is a native southeastern deciduous shrub bearing strap-petaled maroon flowers with a spicy, fruity fragrance from mid-spring through summer. Listed as an endangered species in Florida and at the southern edge of its hardiness range in Zone 9b, it performs best in sheltered spots with afternoon shade and consistently moist soil. Starting at $24.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- Red
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Loam, Clay, Acidic, Moist, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Sweetshrub adapts from full sun to deep shade, but blooms best with at least part sun. In NE Florida's heat, afternoon shade is recommended to protect foliage and extend performance at the southern edge of its range.
Prefers consistently moist, humus-rich soil. Water regularly to maintain soil moisture, especially through Florida's hot, dry summer months. Avoid waterlogging but never allow to fully dry out.
Thrives in moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil with good organic content. Tolerates clay. Amend sandy NE Florida soils with compost. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Mulch heavily to retain moisture and keep roots cool.
Similar needs
Doghobble
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Frostweed
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Spiderwort
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Swamp Twinflower
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Wildfire Black Gum
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Wishbone Flower
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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Common questions
Is Sweetshrub a good plant for St. Augustine?
Sweetshrub is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 6-9 feet × 6-12 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed June 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.