Calycanthus floridus is belong to Calycanthaceae family, native to the moist woodlands of southeastern United States. Its range extends from Virginia, south to Florida, and west to Mississippi. Calycanthus occidentalis is almost similar to floridus, but it is a little taller, flowers are bigger up to 8 cm long,  and leaves also larger and their undersides are not downy, found in California. Two types of Calycanthus floridus was described as: Calycanthus floridus var. floridus and Calycanthus floridus var. glaucus.

Carolina Allspice is a dense, rounded deciduous shrub with a suckering habit which grows 2-4 m tall with an equal or slightly greater spread. The dark green leaves (pale beneath) are opposite, ovate to elliptic 5-12 cm long and 2-5 cm broad, turn golden yellow in autumn. Leaves are aromatic when bruised. Reddish-brown flowers are strongly scented, 4-5 cm long, appears in May and June. Flowers give way to brownish, urn-shaped fruits (seed capsules) which mature in autumn and persist throughout the winter. There is variation is the amount and nature of the perfume among individuals. The flowers also seem to become more fragrant as they age. It is better to choose the plant when it is in bloom to find one with fragrance.

Calycanthus floridus also commonly called, sweetshrub and strawberry bush in reference to the fragrant blooms which have been described as combining hints of pineapple, strawberry and banana.

Propagation can be done by seeds, layers, and divisions. Carolina Allspice produces suckers in profusion. These can be easily dug and planted in a new location.

Calycanthus floridus is easy to grow, pest free, not particular about type of soil and easy to propagate. It likes moist soil, must be kept wet in dry climates. The delightful fragrance of its flowers turns this nice little shrub into a real winner. Dry the flowers, leaves, twigs and bark to use in potpourri.

Use in landscape: Carolina Allspice may be used in natural areas and woodland gardens where it can sucker freely and assume its natural habit. Calycanthus floridus is also nice in planters near entryways and patios where it’s delicate fragrance can be enjoyed.