Hartlage Wine Sweetshrub

Hartlage Wine Sweetshrub (Calycanthus x raulstonii 'Hartlage Wine')

Hartlage Wine Sweetshrub (Calycanthus x raulstonii 'Hartlage Wine') is a bold, deciduous flowering shrub admired for its large, wine-red blooms, refined foliage, and vigorous growth. A hybrid between Calycanthus floridus and Sinocalycanthus chinensis, this selection offers larger flowers, a longer bloom period, and a more elegant structure than either parent, making it an outstanding specimen in mixed borders and foundation plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Hartlage Wine' produces abundant, 3- to 5-inch flowers in a rich burgundy-wine color with creamy yellow centers. The lightly fragrant blooms begin in late spring and may continue intermittently into summer. The foliage is broad, dark green, and highly glossy, creating a lush backdrop that stays attractive through fall, when it may turn golden. The plant matures into a full, rounded shrub with a more upright and refined habit than many native sweetshrubs.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to a variety of soil types
• Water: Moderate; appreciates consistent moisture
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Large, deep red flowers and glossy foliage create dramatic impact
• Foundation Planting: Refined structure and extended bloom time suit front-of-home settings
• Mixed Shrub Borders: Adds contrast and depth with its dark flowers and foliage
• Cut Flower Gardens: Large blooms are excellent for floral arrangements
• Pollinator Gardens: Blooms attract bees and other beneficial insects

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during establishment; more drought tolerant once mature
• Pruning: Prune after flowering to shape or thin as needed
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring if desired
• Mulching: Mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: Avoid prolonged drought or heavy clay without drainage

Why Choose Hartlage Wine Sweetshrub?

• Huge Wine-Red Flowers: Unique blooms make a strong visual statement
• Glossy Green Foliage: Provides a lush, clean background all season
• Hybrid Vigor: Combines the best traits of two species for improved performance
• Long Bloom Season: Flowers for weeks in late spring and early summer
• Focal Point: Showy flowers and bold structure make it a top-tier specimen shrub

Calycanthus x raulstonii 'Hartlage Wine' brings together large-scale blooms, rich color, and refined form�making it an excellent focal point for high-impact borders, foundation plantings, or specimen garden designs.