Aphrodite Sweetshrub Calycanthus 'Aphrodite'

‘Aphrodite’ is a deciduous flowering shrub in the sweetshrub family (Calycanthaceae). It was developed in a collaborative project with NC State and Spring Meadow Nursery. It is a hybrid of undisclosed parentage.

‘Aphrodite’ grows best in average to rich, well-drained soil in anywhere from full sun to deep shade. It prefers some shade in hot summer afternoons, and it will grow lankier and less dense in shade than in sun. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil textures and pH but prefers rich loams. It struggles in sandy soil and drought conditions. Plant it at least 6 feet from other shrubs to give it adequate room to grow. It blooms in early spring before leaves emerge, with the leaves, and sporadically thereafter. 

It forms a dense, rounded bush reaching 8 feet tall and wide. ‘Aphrodite’ produces large, showy flowers in springtime. They are a brighter, clearer red than those of Carolina allspice (Calycanthus floridus), and they are larger. The tepals are broader and more rounded than those of Carolina allspice. They have a fragrance that is described as “light and fruity.”

Use this shrub in borders, as a specimen or as a foundation plant in woodland garden.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems: No significant insect, disease or other problems.