Lindera benzoin (Spicebush)

Spicebush is a deciduous shrub with deep green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. Very small, pale yellow flowers appear early in the spring. They are followed by showy red fruit. The foliage is fragrant.

Spicebush prefers rich soils. It is adaptable and not particular about pH, as long as it is given adequate moisture. It does best as an understory plant. Its berries are valuable food source to migrating birds. Spicebush is also a host plant for swallowtail butterflies.

Spicebush is perfect as an understory shrub, in woodland gardens or naturalized areas.

AT A GLANCE

DISTRIBUTION MAPS 

USDA MAP

BONAP MAP

Present in state

Present in county and native

Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state

Not present in state

Present and rare, native in county

Previously present, now extinct

Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color)