Sinocalycanthus chinensis

A stunning, rare and deciduous plant with fantastic flowers which was first introduced to Britain from central China in 1989 by Roy Lancaster. We were proud to exhibit a flowering specimen at the 1992 Chelsea Flower Show! Sinocalycanthus chinensis has lovely, large, creamy white, magnolia-like flowers with yellow centres in mid summer.

The leaves are glossy, lush green, oval and usually quite large although they can in fact can vary in size from 5 - 20 cm long on established plants.

• Position: Warm in full sun or light, dappled shade.
• Soil: Well drained yet moist, fertile soil. Sinocalycanthus chinensis generally does not grow well in a shallow, chalky soil.
• Hardiness: Hardy. Sinocalycanthus chinensis appreciates protection from cold winter winds.
• Flowering Period: May - July.
• Rate of Growth: Moderate.
• Habit: Eventually a large, densely branching shrub.
  • Height: up to 3 m (10 ft)
  • Spread: up to 4 m (13 ft)

• Notes: The large leaves can be a tempting target for slugs and therefore slug pellets or cultural control of slugs is advised. This plant was formerly called Calycanthus chinensis.