A broad, rounded multi-stemmed shrub covered with fragrant yellow-green flowers in early spring. The flowers open before the leaves emerge and are held close to the branches. Aromatic light green leaves turn deep yellow-gold in fall. Birds feed on the small, brilliant red fruits formed on female plants.
Native Plant Database
Header Photo: Mervin Wallace
Spicebush
Lindera benzoin
Plant Type: Shrubs
Native Environment: Forest, Stream Edge
Season of Interest: Mid (May - June), Late (July - frost)
Main Color: Green
Fall Color: Yellow
USDA PLANTS Range Map
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Sun Exposure
Medium Sun/Average Shade, Shade
Soil
Moisture
Moderate, High
Nature Attracting
Butterfly, Pollinators/Beneficial Insects
Wildlife Benefit
Butterfly / Moth Host, Butterfly / Moth Nectar, Food/Birds, Food/Small Animals
Animal
Resistance
Size
Height:
6 to
12
feet
Spread:
6 to
12
feet
Size
Height: 6 to
12
feet
Spread: 6 to
12
feet
Size
Height: 6 to
12
feet
Spread: 6 to
12
feet
Typical Landscape Use
Shrub borders, shade or woodland gardens, moist areas, native gardens or naturalized areas. The larva (caterpillar) of the spicebush swallowtail butterfly feeds on the leaves.
Establishment and Care Instructions
Grow in moderate, medium wet, well-drained soil. Fall color is best in sunny areas. Thrives in shade and part-shade conditions; will grow in sunny areas as well. Plant males and females to ensure fruit set. Fall color is best in sunny areas; in sunny conditions may need to be pruned to encourage attractive branching.
Special Features
Special Usage
Fragrant
Basic Description
Where Should I Start?
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Where Can I Find This Plant in Nature?
Learn about the Native Environment(s) inhabited by the plants in this database.