Maintenance Landscaping Design

Aphrodite sweetshrub is a plant that is native to the southeastern United States. It is a member of the genus Clethra, which contains approximately 150 species of flowering plants. The plant is named after the Greek goddess Aphrodite, who is the goddess of love and beauty. The plant is also commonly known as the Appalachian allspice, sweet-scented clethra, and wintersweet.

Also known as

• Aphrodite's Tears
  
• False Daphne
  
• Foetid Daphne
  
• Smelling Daphne
  
• Sweet Shrub

Good to Know

• Scientific name: Calycanthus floridus
  
• Common names: sweetshrub, Carolina allspice, strawberry bush
  
• Native to: eastern North America
  
• Hardiness: USDA zones 5-9
  
• Height: 6-9 feet
  
• Width: 6-9 feet
  
• Bloom time: mid to late spring
  
• Flower color: deep red or maroon
  
• Foliage: dark green, elliptical leaves
  
• Soil: prefers well-drained, acidic soils

How to Grow

1. For aphrodite sweetshrub, first step is to find a sunny location.
   
2. Prep the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or manure.
   
3. Aphrodite sweetshrub prefers slightly acidic soils, so if your soil is alkaline, mix in some sulfur to lower the pH.
   
4. Dig a hole twice the width of the plant’s container.
   
5. Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen the roots.
   
6. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil.
   
7. Tamp down the soil to remove any air pockets.
   
8. Water the plant deeply to settle the roots.
   
9. Apply a thick layer of mulch to keep the roots cool and moist.
   
10. Aphrodite sweetshrub is a slow-growing shrub, so be patient and wait for it to mature.

Related plant:
Aphrodite Rose Of Sharon

Soil Condition

About soil condition, the Aphrodite sweetshrub prefers well-drained soils, but it is not particular about soil type or pH. It will even grow in sandy or gravelly soils. This shrub is also tolerant of salt spray.

About light

Like the other shrubs, the Aphrodite sweetshrub does best in full sun to partial sun. It grows well in average to moist conditions, and prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils. This shrub can tolerate some shade, but may not flower as well in shadier areas. It's a good choice for plantings near patios, decks, and other outdoor living spaces where its sweet fragrance can be enjoyed.

The Temperature

The temperature conditions for growing the Aphrodite sweetshrub are very important. If the temperature is too cold, the plant will not thrive. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature gets too hot, the plant will suffer.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. Aphrodite sweetshrub grows best in partial shade to full sun, with protection from the afternoon sun in hot summer climates. It can tolerate some drought, but looks best with regular watering, especially during the hot summer months.

Fertilizer Requirement

Regarding fertilizer, this type of plant does best with a mix that is high in phosphorus. A general-purpose fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or even 8-8-8 will work just fine. As for the roots, it is important to make sure they are well-drained. If the roots sit in water, they will rot.

About light

Pruning your aphrodite sweetshrub is an important part of maintaining its health and vigor. This shrub responds well to pruning and can be pruned annually to keep it from becoming overgrown. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any suckers that may have developed at the base of the plant.

The Propagation

Propagation of the Aphrodite sweetshrub is typically done through softwood cuttings taken from the new growth of the plant. Cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should have several leaves on them. Cuttings should be placed in a moist potting mix and kept moist until they have rooted. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the garden.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate research has been conducted in ideal conditions. However, some studies suggest that the plant may have a more moderate growth rate in average or poor conditions. The plant typically blooms in late spring or early summer.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Root rot is the most serious problem and can be caused by several different fungi. Powdery mildew is a white, powdery fungus that grows on the leaves and stems of the plant. Leaf spot is a brown or black fungus that attacks the leaves of the plant.

List to Know

• If growing aphrodite sweetshrub from seed, start them indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last frost date in your area.
  
• Use a well-draining potting mix and plant the seeds in small pots or cells.
  
• Keep the soil moist but not wet, and place the pots in a bright location.
  
• Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out so that only the strongest plant in each pot remains.
  
• When the weather warms up and all danger of frost has passed, transplant the seedlings into the garden.
  
• Choose a location in full sun to partial shade.
  
• Aphrodite sweetshrub prefers a rich, well-drained soil.
  
• Space the plants 2-3 feet apart.
  
• Water regularly during the first growing season to help the plants establish a deep root system.
  
• Aphrodite sweetshrub is

Alternative Plants

• Ardisia crenata
  
• Ardisia crispa
  
• Ardisia elliptica
  
• Ardisia escallonioides
  
• Ardisia japonica
  
• Ardisia lauriformis
  
• Ardisia crenulata
  
• Ardisia compressa
  
• Ardisia crenulata var. crenulata
  
• Ardisia crenulata var. crenulata f. alba
  

Source:
JC Raulston Arboretum - Our Plants - Calycanthus 'Aphrodite'
Aphrodite (Venus): The oft-invoked goddess of love
Gallery: The Birth of Aphrodite - The Kosmos Society