Lindera benzoin (Spice Bush)

A lovely harbinger of spring, Lindera benzoin (Spice Bush) is a medium to tall, multi-stemmed, rounded, deciduous shrub noted for its early flowers, red berries, and excellent fall color. Its graceful, slender branches are studded with dense umbel-like clusters of sweetly fragrant, tiny, pale yellow flowers in early-mid spring. Blooming before the leaves unfurl, the blossoms attract butterflies and other pollinators.

Spice Bush is an important host plant for several butterfly species, most notably the Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio troilus). It is also a magnet for several bird species, including the American Robin, Eastern Bluebird, Gray Catbird, Great-Crested Flycatcher, Hermit Thrush, Red-Eyed Vireo, and Veery. Its berries provide a vital food source for these birds, making Spicebush an essential component of any bird-friendly landscape.

Spice Bush is dioecious with male and female flowers on separate plants. The female flowers are followed by bright, glossy red berries that mature in fall and attract birds and small mammals. The foliage of thick, obovate, pale green leaves, 5 in. long (12 cm), turns golden-yellow in fall. Both the fruit and foliage are aromatic, emitting a spicy fragrance when bruised. Fast-growing, easy to grow, this eastern North American native is a fine choice for moist, shady places or naturalizing.

• Grows up to 6-12 ft. tall and wide (180-360 cm).
• This plant is best grown in full sun to part shade in average, slightly acid, medium, well-drained soils. Tolerates full shade as well as a wide range of soils, including clay and wet soils. Best flower production and fall color are obtained in full sun.
• No serious pest and disease issues. Deer resistant.
• Perfect for mixed shrub borders, woodland gardens, naturalized areas, rain gardens, or along ponds or streams.
• Propagate by seed.
• Native to eastern North America.