shrub

Aphrodite Sweetshrub

Calycanthus aphrodite

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Hybrid (North America x China)

Toxicity

Seeds are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Calycanthus, or Sweetshrub, are deciduous shrubs prized for their uniquely fragrant flowers and handsome foliage. They are generally tough, adaptable plants with few pest or disease problems. 'Aphrodite' is a hybrid sweetshrub notable for its large, fragrant, deep red, magnolia-like flowers that rebloom throughout the summer. It combines the large flower size of its Chinese parent with the fragrance and hardiness of its American parent.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The main attraction is the profusion of large, fragrant, wine-red flowers that resemble small magnolias. They appear against a backdrop of large, glossy, dark green leaves, creating a lush, almost tropical effect. The plant reblooms, providing color and fragrance all summer.

Its dense, multi-stemmed habit makes it an effective screen or informal hedge. It's an excellent choice for planting near a patio, window, or walkway where its delightful, fruity fragrance can be easily enjoyed.

The flowers are pollinated by beetles, an interesting ecological interaction. The shrub's dense growth provides good cover and potential nesting sites for birds. It is also highly deer and rabbit resistant.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun or partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Incorporate compost into the planting area to enrich the soil.
Dig a hole twice the width of the plant's root ball.
Set the plant in the hole so the crown is at soil level.
Backfill the hole with soil and water deeply to remove air pockets.
Mulch around the base to conserve water and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Provide consistent moisture, especially during the first few years, to encourage the best growth and reblooming.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially in hot weather, to keep the soil consistently moist.
Prune immediately after the first flush of flowers to shape the plant.
Remove any suckers that appear at the base to maintain a tidy form.
Provide afternoon shade in hotter climates for best performance.

Don't

Do not let the soil dry out completely, as this can cause stress and leaf scorch.
Avoid planting in heavy, waterlogged clay.
Don't prune heavily in late fall or winter, as this can remove flower buds.
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which promote leaves over flowers.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant specimen for mixed bordersLush screen or informal hedgeWoodland garden accent plant

Companion Plants

Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' Hosta 'Guacamole' Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum' Fothergilla gardenii Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Aphrodite Sweetshrub questions

What zones can Aphrodite Sweetshrub grow in?

Aphrodite Sweetshrub is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Aphrodite Sweetshrub deer resistant?

Yes — Aphrodite Sweetshrub is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Aphrodite Sweetshrub bloom?

Aphrodite Sweetshrub typically blooms in late spring through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Aphrodite Sweetshrub need full sun?

Aphrodite Sweetshrub does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.