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western sweetshrub

Scientific Name: Calycanthus occidentalis

Family: Calycanthaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Calycanthus occidentalis (Western Sweetshrub)

Calycanthus occidentalis, commonly known as Western Sweetshrub, California Allspice, or Spice Bush, is a deciduous shrub prized for its fragrant flowers and attractive foliage. It is sometimes also called California Spicebush or Western Spicebush.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that Calycanthus contains "Known Hazards". Further research would be needed to define what those hazards are.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Calycanthus occidentalis
  • Family: Calycanthaceae
  • Synonyms: Calycanthus macrophyllus, Butneria occidentalis
  • Other Scientific Names Mentioned: Calycanthus occidentalis Hook. & Arn.

Distribution and Habitat

Calycanthus occidentalis originates in California. It is native to the western United States, specifically California.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • It is described as a deciduous shrub.
  • The plant is winter-hardy.
  • Features maroon flowers.

Traditional Uses

  • The bark has been used as a spice, as a replacement for cinnamon or allspice, and for medicinal purposes.
  • Shoots have also been used.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Crosses exist between the Asian sweetshrub (C. chinensis) and the Western native sweetshrub (C. occidentalis), such as the hybrid "Aphrodite".

Quirky Facts

  • The flowers and leaves emit a fragrance reminiscent of red wine.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden
  • Discover Life
  • CalPhotos