Calycanthus venus is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It is a member of the family Calycanthaceae, which consists of only two genera. The other genus is Calycanthus, which contains only one species. The family and genera are both monotypic. Calycanthus venus is a large shrub that can grow up to 6 m (20 ft) tall. It has large, dark green leaves that are arranged in opposite pairs. The leaves are ovate-shaped with toothed margins. The flowers are white or pale pink, and they have a strong, sweet fragrance. The fruit is a dark brown, woody capsule that contains numerous small seeds. Calycanthus venus is an attractive plant that is often used in landscaping. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions and does not require much maintenance. The plant is relatively pest and disease free.
Related plant:
Calycanthus
About soil condition, Calycanthus Venus can adapt to different types of soils as long as the soil is well drained. It is recommended to use humus-rich soil or soil with high organic content. For best growth, the soil should be moist but not soggy.
So, like the other flowering plants, calycanthus venus requires sunlight to produce blooms. The plant should be placed in a spot where it will receive at least six hours of sunlight each day. If you live in an area with long summer days, your calycanthus venus will do best with a few hours of afternoon shade to protect it from the hot afternoon sun.
The temperature condition that is necessary for the growth of calycanthus venus is warm. This plant grows best in temperatures that are between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it can also tolerate temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature gets too cold, the plant will become dormant.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50-60%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off. If the humidity is too high, the plant will start to develop mold and mildew.
Mentioning fertilizer, this kind of plant needs more phosphorus which can be provided through a good quality organic fertilizer. If you have calycanthus venus in your garden, make sure to give it a good phosphorus-rich fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer. This will encourage the growth of strong roots, lush foliage, and an abundance of flowers.
Pruning is an important part of keeping your calycanthus venus healthy and looking its best. Pruning can be done to remove dead or diseased branches, to promote new growth, or to shape the plant. When pruning, be sure to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of calycanthus venus can be done either by seed or cuttings. For seed, sow the seed in spring or early summer in a well-drained seed bed. transplant the seedlings to their permanent location in fall. For cuttings, take 6-8 inch cuttings of semi-ripe wood in late summer or early fall and root in a well-drained rooting medium.
Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the growing season and climate. In general, calycanthus venus grow best in full sun to part shade, and prefer moist, well-drained soils. However, they are somewhat drought tolerant once established. Calycanthus venus typically grow anywhere from 1-3 feet per year.
Common problems for this kind of plant are root and stem rot, which can be caused by too much water or humid conditions. The leaves may also yellow and drop off if the plant is not getting enough light.
Source:
JC Raulston Arboretum - Our Plants - Calycanthus 'Venus'
Calycanthus occidentalis | Landscape Plants - Oregon State
Sweetshrub - Calycanthus 'Aphrodite' PP 24,014 | North Carolina ...
