Wintersweet
chimonanthus fragrans
Also known as: ["Winter Sweet","Winterbloom"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub known for its fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in winter, native to China.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Laurales |
| Family: | Calycanthaceae |
| Genus: | Chimonanthus |
| Botanical Name: | Chimonanthus fragrans |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 6–9; prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates brief frosts.
Protect from extreme cold; ensure good air circulation; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly after flowering; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas; water before and after feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; seeds are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is mature but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to improve rooting success.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts; selective heading back of overgrown branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant; encourage flowering; remove dead or overcrowded branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; trim rootbound roots; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or buds failing to open in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; buds may not develop properly.
Solution: Mulch around the base; protect from cold drafts; move to a sheltered location if potted.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; reduce or stop in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicChimonanthus fragrans is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines following ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicChimonanthus fragrans is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines following ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicChimonanthus fragrans is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological impacts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Chimonanthus fragrans bloom?
A: It typically blooms in late winter to early spring.
Q: Is Chimonanthus fragrans suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is primarily an outdoor shrub, though it can be grown in containers in temperate climates.
Q: How should Chimonanthus fragrans be pruned?
A: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage future blooms.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Calycanthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
