How much sun does California spicebush need?

California spicebush grows best in part sun conditions.

When does California spicebush bloom?

California spicebush blooms in April, May, June, and July.

Where is California spicebush native?

California spicebush (Calycanthus occidentalis) is native to CA, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does California spicebush attract?

California spicebush draws sap beetles and flies.

California spicebush

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Calycanthus occidentalis

Last reviewed: October 2026

California spicebush (Calycanthus occidentalis) is a perennial shrub native to CA. It blooms in April, May, June, and July. The flowers draw sap beetles and flies.

Toxicity unknown

California spicebush (Calycanthus occidentalis) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

72"–120" H × 72"–120" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun, Jul

Native to

Pollinators

sap beetles, flies

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Northwestern Forested Mountains Sierra Nevada Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Central California Valley Southern California/Northern Baja Coast

A deciduous shrub with arching stems and glossy oval leaves that release a spicy fragrance when crushed. Produces wine-red, ranunculus-like flowers in late spring followed by urn-shaped seed pods that persist into winter.

Growing California spicebush

Grow California spicebush in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 72 to 120 inches tall and spread 72 to 120 inches wide.

Wildlife value

The unusual maroon flowers are pollinated primarily by sap beetles rather than bees, and the dense branching offers cover and nesting structure for songbirds.

Common questions

How much sun does California spicebush need?: California spicebush grows best in part sun conditions.
When does California spicebush bloom?: California spicebush blooms in April, May, June, and July.
Where is California spicebush native?: California spicebush (Calycanthus occidentalis) is native to CA, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does California spicebush attract?: California spicebush draws sap beetles and flies.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

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Common plant problems, and what to check first

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