Eastern Sweetshrub

Calycanthus floridus glaucus

Physical Characteristics

Calycanthus floridus glaucus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. 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), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. 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 - Pennsylvania to North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment The leaves, root and bark are dried and used as a substitute for cinnamon[177]. Some caution is advised, see reports above on toxicity[270].

Medicinal Uses

Diuretic Emmenagogue Urinary Emmenagogue[61]. An infusion of the bark has been used to treat urinary problems[257].

Known Hazards

Some reports say that the fruits are poisonous to sheep[235]. Calycanthus contains calycanthine, an alkaloid similar to strychnine, and it is toxic to humans and livestock[270].