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California Native Plant

Calycanthus occidentalis

Spice Bush

Plant photo of: Calycanthus occidentalis
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Information by: Jerry Sortomme Editor        Photographer: Steve Mullany

 

Description

A large, fast deciduous shrub growing to 12' tall and 15' wide, the Spice Bush bears large green leaves and small, dull red magnolia-like flowers with narrow petals. Its leaves are fragrant when crushed. The plant should be grown in partial sun or shade, with average to little summer watering and good drainage.

 

Plant Type

Shrub

Height Range

6-12'

Flower Color

Red

Flower Season

Spring, Summer

Leaf Color

Green

Bark Color

Brown

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

Summer

Sun

Half, Shade

Water

Low

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Rich, Well-drained, Moist

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Wetlands, Woodland

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers, Specimen

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer

Location Uses

Background, Park, With Rocks

Special Uses

Screen

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs. If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.