Uses: Ideal for privacy screens, foundation plantings, mixed borders, and as a bold specimen shrub.
Benefits: Produces large, magnolia-like red blooms with a fruity fragrance. Long bloom season from early summer through fall. Proven Winners® variety known for exceptional performance and flower size.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 – 9
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Life Cycle: Deciduous shrub
Mature Height: 6' – 12'
Mature Width: 6' – 12'
Bloom Season: Early summer through fall
Summary
A showy, long-blooming shrub with exotic appeal and Proven Winners® reliability.
Calycanthus x 'Aphrodite', known as Sweetshrub 'Aphrodite', is a striking hybrid developed by Proven Winners® and prized for its oversized, deep red, magnolia-like flowers. Blooming from early summer through fall, it adds bold structure and rich color to the garden throughout the season.
The large blooms are occasionally fragrant, with notes that range from pineapple to bubblegum, depending on growing conditions. Even when fragrance is minimal, the flower form and color alone make this a head-turning landscape plant.
'Aphrodite' is a vigorous grower with lush green foliage and an upright habit, making it ideal for foundation beds, back-of-border accents, or informal screens. It performs well in both full sun and partial shade and is adaptable to a wide range of garden soils.
Care
Calycanthus Care
Plant in full sun to partial shade. More sun encourages heavier blooming and stronger growth, while some afternoon shade is beneficial in hotter climates.
Grow in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Although it is adaptable, consistently moist soil will support the best flower production.
Water regularly during the first growing season to help roots establish. Once mature, 'Aphrodite' becomes moderately drought tolerant.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Our slow release fertilizer is a great option.
Prune after blooming if shaping is needed. 'Aphrodite' flowers on both old and new wood, so light trimming won’t disrupt the next bloom cycle.
Mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially in hot or dry areas.
Space plants 6 to 12 feet apart to allow for full, natural growth.
Size
What Size is Sweetshrub 'Aphrodite' for Sale Online?
Our Sweetshrub 'Aphrodite' plants are shipped in greenhouse-grade grow pots, with each plant appropriately sized for its container. For specific inquiries, please contact us.
How Large Does Sweetshrub 'Aphrodite' Grow?
Sweetshrub 'Aphrodite' typically reaches a mature height and spread of 6 to 12 feet.
Additional Information
Common Names of Calycanthus x 'Aphrodite'
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Sweetshrub 'Aphrodite'
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Aphrodite Allspice
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Hybrid Carolina Allspice
Toxicity and Risks of Sweetshrub 'Aphrodite'
Sweetshrub is generally considered non-toxic to people and pets. However, it’s always wise to discourage chewing or ingestion of landscape plants.
