calycanthus floridus propagate

(Question)

We have an old (>20 yrs) calycanthus floridus thriving in our yard in part shade. We removed the front yard lawn and planted a native pollinator garden and would like to add a specimen as part of the planting design. Cant source one anywhere. How can I propagate from the one we have?

(Answer)

Calycanthus floridus (common names: Carolina allspice, sweetshrub, strawberry shrub), a rounded deciduous shrub with a suckering habit and fragrant brownish to deep red spring flowers, is native to southeast US and can be grown in Canada. Hardiness Zones 5 to 8.

It can be propagated by seed, cuttings and suckers, the most reliable and easiest of which is the latter. Propagating by seed takes much time, and may result in seedlings which are unlikely to be an exact copy of parent plant. Fresh green seeds may germinate in 3 weeks while dried seeds may take up to 6 months and requires cold treatment (cold stratification of 3 weeks to 3 months) prior to sowing. The seedlings are potted, grown indoors for the first winter, and transplanted outdoors in late spring. Cuttings, taken in July, are more successful. These are dipped in rooting hormone and placed in sterile sand or well-draining potting mix.

Propagation by suckers, in the spring, is likely the easiest method. The rooted suckers can be detached from the main plant and then planted in their permanent spot. Almost all will root well when consistent adequate moisture is provided.

Please click on the following links for further information:

Soft wood and mid-season cutting methods

Propagating from Suckers

All the best in propagating your own Calycanthus floridus