Calycanthus occidentalis, Spice Bush

Everyone should grow this lovely, versatile shrub. It has large glossy green leaves and distinctive, fragrant, red flowers from May to August. Will grow to 5–13 ft tall and wide. Full sun is okay with lots of moisture, but part shade is ideal. It needs moist soil, making it a good plant for irrigated landscapes. Tolerates a wide variety of soils and is generally deer resistant.

A wonderful addition to the back of the border or for screening. Spice Bush can be grown as a multistemmed small tree or shrub, and even trimmed into a hedge. Technically, it is deciduous so don’t think it’s sick if leaves turn yellow and fall off. In Marin’s gentle winter climate it tends to stay evergreen.