Calycanthus occidentalis |
Syn. Butneria occidentalis
Native Region: Warmer regions of Pacific Northwest North America
Zone Range: 7-10
Preferred Climate: Full to semi sun; well draining humus rich soil.
Harvest Date: Sunday 12 October, 2008
Seed count: 12-15
Description:
Looks similar to C. floridus but not as hardy. Grows slightly larger reaching 3 meters or more in height with a 2 meter spread. Anemone-magnolia like flowers are more of a true red compared to its eastern cousin, and have the same strawberry fragrance. Deer proof. Problem free. In the Pacific Northwest its native haunts are along sheltered riparian areas where it can receive some supplimental water during summer drought. Needs more water the more sunny the site.
Cultivation:
Seeds deveop a hard coat if overly dry. If so give a hot water treatment and soak 12-24 hours. Sow, barely covering seed, and tamp soil. Give 30 days cold moist stratification. Plastic cover greatly improves success. Move to warm site 15-22C. Days to germinate: 14-35. Easy way: soak in 'Skookum Grow' for 48 hours, then sow in a resealable baggie and provide warmth (20C) and some light. It starts germinating in 3-7 days. Transplant when a brownish hue on the seed root develops. Huge root system so use the appropriate sized container. Keep warm, moist (not wet) and give light. Seedling leaves look like green butterflies.
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