Sweet Shrub (Calycanthus floridus) is a native to eastern North America from Virginia to Florida; this particular plant is growing in Lithia Park, Ashland, Oregon. The common name of this shrub is derived from the nature of its wood, which, when bruised, yields a camphor-like fragrance.

The unusual dark red flowers with strap-shaped petals bloom from late spring through early summer. The attractive dark green foliage of this shrub is seldom damaged by insects and turns a clear butter yellow in fall.

Previous Photo | Next Photo | Don's Favorite Photos | Back to the Front |