Lindera, Genus, benzoin, Species,
- Genus & species
northern spicebush
Overview
Lindera benzoin is a deciduous shrub in the laurel family, growing 6-12 feet (1.8-3.7 m) tall and nearly as wide with a rounded, multi-stemmed form. The oval leaves, 2-5 inches (5-13 cm) long, are smooth-edged and release a spicy citrus scent when crushed, as do the twigs and bark. In early spring, before the leaves emerge, clusters of small yellow flowers line the bare stems. The species is dioecious, so only female plants, when pollinated, bear the bright red ellipsoidal drupes, about 0.4 inch (1 cm) long, that ripen in late summer and autumn. Foliage turns clear yellow before falling. Native to moist woodlands of eastern North America, it grows as an understory shrub and is a larval host for the spicebush swallowtail butterfly. The aromatic fruit was historically dried and ground as a substitute for allspice, and the leaves brewed as a tea. It needs consistently moist soil and tends to thin out and grow sparse in dry or fully exposed sites.
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, from Ontario and Maine south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas. It grows naturally in the understory of moist deciduous woodlands, along streams, and in damp ravines.Suggested Uses
Used in woodland and native plant gardens, shrub borders, and rain gardens with moist soil. Suited to shaded sites where many flowering shrubs struggle. The fall berries and aromatic foliage support birds and the spicebush swallowtail.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6' - 12'
Width/Spread6' - 12'
Bloom Information
Blooms in early spring, generally March to April, when clusters of small yellow flowers open along the bare twigs before the leaves expand. Male and female flowers occur on separate plants. The early flowers are a nectar source for emerging bees and other insects.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Green, turning yellow in autumnGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
