Description

Spicebush is considered the “forsythia of the wilds” because of its early spring flowering – although it’s much prettier and more beneficial than forsythia! A fast-growing, graceful deciduous shrub with a broad, rounded habit, useful in moist, shady places; however, a small amount of sun yields a bush with better form and more berries. Glossy leaves and graceful, slender, light green branches. Leaves are alternate with a dark green upper surface and a lighter green lower surface. Foliage, stems and berries are aromatic when crushed (thus the common name). Leaves turn a colorful golden-yellow in fall. Umbel-like clusters of tiny, pale yellow flowers bloom in spring before leaves appear from globose buds along the twigs. When fertilized, flowers of female plants give way to bright red olive-shaped berries (drupes) which mature in fall. Berries are high in fat content and very attractive to birds. L. benzoin is dioecious; male and female flowers appear on separate plants. Male flowers are larger and showier than the female flowers, and 9 stamens are visible, with two anthers on each. Female flowers have a “bowling pin” shaped pistil emerging from the center. Female plants need a male plant in order to set fruit. Attracts birds and butterflies. Larval host for the eastern tiger swallowtail, the spicebush swallowtail and the Promethea silk moth. Prefers moist, rich soils but tolerates mild drought and flooding conditions. Height: 6-12 ft. Spread: 6-12 ft. Family: Lauraceae Bloom time: March Sun: full sun to part shade Water: medium to wet Deer resistant photo credit: R. A. Nonenmacher