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Calycanthus occidentalis

Western Spice Bush

Plant photo of: Calycanthus occidentalis
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Information by: W-E Plants for the Willamette Valle        Photographer: Steve Mullany

 

Description

This Oregon native is a broadleaf deciduous shrub that quickly reaches 4-6' tall and wide. It has an upright, rounded or irregular habit. Foliage is small and bright green turning yellow in fall. Purplish brown flowers appear in late spring, fading to yellow in summer. Crushed flowers and leaves are "fragrant" to some folks, reminding one of an old wine barrel. This plant can form thickets. It tolerates full or part sun and moist soil. It tolerates occasional flooding, clay or sand soil or no drainage. Prune to remove crowded stems.

 

Plant Type

Shrub

Height Range

3-6'

Width Range

6-12'

Flower Color

Purple, Yellow

Flower Season

Spring, Summer

Leaf Color

Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full, Half

Water

Low

Growth Rate

Fast

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Average, Moist

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

Thorns/Spines

Design Styles

Water Garden, Wetlands, Wild Garden, Woodland

Accenting Features

Fragrance, Showy Flowers, Specimen

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer

Location Uses

Background, Shrub Border, Park, Walls / Fences

Special Uses

Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.