Lindera benzoin (spicebush)

Northern spicebush or common spicebush is a deciduous woodland shrub in the laurel family. It has been referred to as the native forsythia because of its clusters of small yellow flowers, blooming in early Spring before the leaves appear. Spicebush can get to 12' tall by as much wide in full sun to part shade. It does well in soil with medium moisture, though it can tolerate some drought. Its leaves are aromatic when crushed, smelling spicy and citrusy. Greenish-yellow flowers appear in April with a bright red fruit in late fall. Leaves turn yellow to golden in Fall. Good for naturalized woodland areas, shrub borders, and as a full dense shrub in the sun. Note: Plants are either male or female; both plants are needed in order to get fruit, however the plants offered are grown from seed and not yet flowering to determine whether male or female.

Northern spicebush is native to eastern North America. Within its native range, it is a relatively common plant in the understory in moist, rich woods, especially those with exposed limestone. Deer, rabbits, opossums, and other animals feed on the leaves, twigs, and berries of spicebush. Flowers attract butterflies, and birds feast on the berries in the fall. The berries are a favorite food of wood thrushes. Host plant for spicebush swallowtail and the eastern tiger swallowtail and for various species of moths. Maryland DNR lists as deer-resistant. Northern spicebush is on the University of Maryland Extension's list of recommended native shrubs. 

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native)  

Photo by Kathy Thornton

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