Carolina Allspice, Eastern sweetshrub, Strawberry Bush, Sweetshrub, Carolina Allspice

Calycanthus floridus

Physical Characteristics

Calycanthus floridus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.7 m (8ft) by 2 m (6ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from October to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

South-eastern N. America - Virginia to Florida, west to Alberta and West Virginia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment The aromatic bark is dried and used as a substitute for cinnamon[2, 11, 46, 61, 105, 161, 183]. Some caution is advised, see reports above on toxicity[270].

Medicinal Uses

Antiperiodic Antispasmodic Cardiac Disinfectant Diuretic Emetic Ophthalmic Skin Antispasmodic, disinfectant[106, 169]. The plant contains an alkaloid that has a powerfully depressant action on the heart[4]. A fluid extract has been used as an antiperiodic[4]. A tea made from the root or bark has been used as a strong emetic and diuretic for kidney and bladder ailments[222, 257]. A cold tea has been used as eye drops in the treatment of failing eyesight[222, 257]. An ooze from the bark has been used to treat children's sores, whilst an infusion has been used to treat hives[257].

Known Hazards

Ruminants are reported to have a toxic reaction from grazing this plant[4, 222]. Calycanthus contains calycanthine, an alkaloid similar to strychnine, and it is toxic to humans and livestock[270].