This 3 meter evergreen tree has opposite buds and leaves about 14cm x 6cm with entire margins. It is hardy in Vancouver and was originally brought from Italy.The leaves are green with an acuminate tip and a slightly fuzzy surface. It is blooming now ,June 20th , and has a red/magenta flower 6cm in diameter with approx. 20 petals 5 mm.in width. Very unusual is the pineapple scent of the flowers. Any ideas what this is?
Based on your description, it sounds like Calycanthus floridus, a native of the southeastern United States. It is commonly known as sweetshrub, Carolina allspice, strawberry shrub, or pineapple shrub. A few resources: Calycanthus floridus from the USDA Plants Database Calycanthus floridus from the Virginia Tech Forestry Dept Calycanthus floridus from Duke University Calycanthus floridus from Auburn University's Horticulture Dept
