Lindera benzoin (spicebush)

Low maintenance dioecious native shrub; easily grown in average, well-drained soils; part shade. However, not fussy about moisture, soil type, light, or pH, an easy plant to grow and enjoy!  Fall color will be better if given some sun. This plant can tolerate full shade; ideally, part shade is best. The shrub is rounded, up to 12′, occasionally 15′. Common in woods, valleys, ravines, and along streams. Greenish-yellow flower clusters appear before the foliage in spring. For fruit set a male and female are required, our seedlings are unsexed. However, male flowers are larger and showier than female ones. Female flowers lead to red drupes that attract birds. Leaves turn yellow in autumn and are aromatic.

The larva (caterpillar) of the spicebush swallowtail butterfly feeds on the leaves of this shrub.

Genus name honors Johann Linder (1676-1723), a Swedish botanist and physician.

Specific epithet comes from the Arabic vernacular word meaning aromatic gum.

No serious insect or disease problems.

Ideal for borders, shade or woodland gardens, moist areas along streams or ponds, native plant gardens, or naturalized plantings.

Spicebush berries and leaves can also be eaten. You can cook them, or eat them raw.