Calycanthus × raulstonii 'Hartlage Wine' | Carolina Allspice - Shrub - Height 80-90cm - 12lt

Calycanthus × raulstonii ‘Hartlage Wine’ is a spectacular deciduous shrub valued for its richly coloured flowers, attractive foliage and long season of interest in the garden. Sometimes known as a sweetshrub or Carolina allspice, this hybrid combines the best qualities of its parent species to create a bold but graceful presence in borders, woodland plantings or as a striking specimen.

In summer, Hartlage Wine produces an abundance of large, wine-red to burgundy-coloured flowers with a hint of cream at their centres. The blooms are often described as magnolia-like in form, lightly scented and carried along the length of the upright, arching branches from late spring into early autumn. These dramatic flowers stand out beautifully against the shrub’s glossy green, oval leaves, providing both colour and texture.

The foliage itself is deciduous, turning a buttery yellow in autumn before it drops, extending interest through the seasons and adding another layer of visual appeal. Mature plants can reach around 2.5–4 metres in height and spread over many years, though they can be kept smaller with careful pruning if space is limited.

Hartlage Wine thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil that is fertile and humus-rich. A sheltered position, away from cold, drying winds, will help it perform best in the UK climate. Once established, it remains relatively low-maintenance, though light pruning after flowering can help maintain a neat habit and encourage vigorous new growth.

Overall, Calycanthus × raulstonii ‘Hartlage Wine’ is admired for its striking wine-red flowers, subtle fragrance and seasonal foliage colour. It makes a bold addition to mixed borders, a woodland planting scheme or as a focal shrub, blending dramatic floral display with reliable garden performance.