Spicebush is a spectacular shrub throughout the seasons, but we admire it most in the fall because it is a shrub with phenomenal fall color--a bright yellow. 

Spicebush (Lindera benzoin)

What kind of shrub makes the best chef?
​A Spicebush! 

Did you know?

• Early land surveyors and settlers used this shrub as an indicator species for good agricultural land
• Native Americans used parts of it to treat colds and typhoid fevers 
• The shrub is called Spicebush because when the twigs, fruit, leaves, or flowers are rubbed, they smell spicy

Common Names: 

• Spicebush 
• Common Spicebush 

Wildlife Benefits: 

• The Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly relies on this shrub as it's host plant 
• Birds eat the fruit 
• White-tailed deer will feed on the twigs and leaves 

Habitat: 

• ​Woodlands 

Size: 

• 8-12' tall, with a crown width of 8-12' 

Growing Conditions: 

• Full sun to partial shade
• Moist, well-drained soil 

Select Identification Characteristics: 

• Leaf Type: Simple 
• Leaf Arrangement: Alternate
• Bud Arrangement: Alternate
• Terminal Bud: Single 

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