Spicebush Lindera benzoin
ABOUT
The plant known as spicebush is recognized for its multi-season interest and distinctive features. It has a rounded, bushy habit, with many slender, light brown branches forming a dense shrub. The foliage consists of leaves that are broadly oval-shaped and pointed at the tips, with a vibrant green color that turns to brilliant yellow in the fall, adding a splash of autumn color to the landscape. Early in spring, before the leaves fully emerge, spicebush produces small clusters of tiny, fragrant, yellow flowers which add subtle beauty to the plant. These flowers are one of the first signs of spring in the areas where the plant is native. As the seasons change, the flowers give way to red, berry-like fruits that are a food source for wildlife, particularly birds. The bark of the spicebush is smooth and light gray, becoming somewhat more textured with age. The leaves of the spicebush are aromatic when crushed, and it is a host plant for the spicebush swallowtail butterfly, which lays its eggs on the foliage. The caterpillars feed on the leaves, highlighting the plant's role in the local ecosystem. The overall presentation of spicebush is that of a green, lush shrub during spring and summer which transitions to warm yellows in the fall, providing year-round interest in the garden or wild landscape where it naturally occurs.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lauraceae.
Synonyms
Spicebush, Northern Spicebush, Wild Allspice, Benjamin Bush, Spice Wood.
Common names
Benzoin aestivale, Laurus benzoin, Benzoin benzoin, Lindera benzoin var. pubescens, Lindera pubescens, Daphnidium benzoin, Iteadaphne benzoin, Spicea benzoin.
ToxicityTo humans
Spicebush (Lindera benzoin), to my current knowledge, is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. In fact, various parts of the spicebush, such as its leaves and berries, have been traditionally used in cooking and herbal medicine. However, as with any plant, individual allergies and sensitivities can occur, so it is always advisable to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before consuming any wild plants.
To pets
In the case of spicebush (Lindera benzoin), I don't have information suggesting that the plant is commonly toxic to pets. However, the lack of data on its effects means that we cannot rule out the possibility of sensitivity or an allergic reaction in some animals. Caution is advisable, and pet owners should generally prevent their animals from consuming plants that are not explicitly known to be safe. If ingestion does occur and an adverse reaction is noted, it's important to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6-12 feet (1.8-3.7 meters)
Spread
6-12 feet (1.8-3.7 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Wildlife: Spicebush provides food for a variety of wildlife, including birds and butterflies, particularly being a host plant for the Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly.
- Landscape Aesthetics: With its bright yellow flowers in early spring and vibrant red berries in autumn, spicebush adds seasonal interest and color to gardens and naturalized areas.
- Erosion Control: As a native shrub, spicebush can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or in naturalized areas.
- Ease of Care: Spicebush is a low-maintenance plant that once established, requires minimal care, making it suitable for novice gardeners or those looking for easy-to-manage landscapes.
- Edible Uses: The berries of the spicebush can be used as a spice substitute for allspice and can be made into teas or used in culinary dishes.
- Habitat Restoration: Being a native plant, spicebush is often used in restoration projects to help reestablish natural ecosystems.
- Fall Foliage: Spicebush's leaves turn a striking yellow in the fall, providing a splash of autumnal color.
- Natural Repellent: The aromatic leaves of the spicebush can be used as a natural insect repellent.
- Diversity Contribution: Including spicebush in a planting scheme can increase the horticultural diversity of a landscape, which can be beneficial for sustaining a healthy ecosystem.
- Cultural Significance: Spicebush has been used by Indigenous peoples and early settlers for various purposes, contributing to the cultural heritage of an area.
Medical Properties- Antirheumatic - Northern spicebush has traditionally been used as a treatment for rheumatism and arthritis.
- Carminative - The plant has been used to help alleviate gastrointestinal problems such as gas.
- Diaphoretic - It can induce sweating and has been used in the treatment of fevers.
- Stimulant - Northern spicebush has been used for its stimulating properties on the body's systems.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lindera benzoin, commonly known as spicebush, has been used as a substitute for allspice due to its similar flavor and aroma.
- The leaves of the spicebush, when dried, can serve as a flavorful tea enjoyed for its unique taste.
- Spicebush twigs have traditionally been used to season game meat, imparting a distinctive, spicy flavor.
- The bright red berries, known as drupes, can be used to make jelly with a robust, slightly spicy taste.
- Native Americans once utilized spicebush wood to make small tools or utensils because of its strength and flexibility.
- Spicebush is often planted as an ornamental shrub in gardens due to its attractive yellow flowers and aromatic leaves.
- In some cultures, the leaves and twigs are used in the preparation of fermented beverages, giving a unique flavor profile.
- The bark of the spicebush can be crafted into aromatic sachets, which are used to freshen up clothes and linens.
- During the American Civil War, soldiers used the leaves of spicebush as a coffee substitute when real coffee was unavailable.
- Anglers sometimes crush the leaves and rub them onto their clothing as an improvised insect repellent while fishing.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Spicebush is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Spicebush is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal: Lindera benzoin, commonly known as Spicebush, is a shrub that heralds the arrival of spring with its vibrant, yellow flowers, symbolizing new beginnings and the renewal of life.
- Protection: In some traditions, Spicebush is thought to possess protective qualities, believed to safeguard against negative energies and to be a guardian of the home when planted nearby.
- Healing: Historically, the Spicebush has been used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans, symbolizing the healing power of nature and its role in traditional medicine.
WaterSpicebush (Lindera benzoin) should be watered deeply, allowing water to reach the roots, particularly during its growing season in spring and summer. An established spicebush typically requires watering once a week, with about 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant, depending on the soil moisture and climate conditions. During hot, dry periods, you may need to increase watering frequency. It's important not to overwater, as spicebush prefers moist but well-drained soil. In winter, reduce watering as the plant goes dormant.
LightSpicebush thrives in partial shade to full sun. It is best situated in a location where it can receive morning sunlight and afternoon shade, or dappled light throughout the day. This mimics its natural understory habitat, where it is protected from the harsh midday sun.
TemperatureSpicebush can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from as low as 0°F to as high as 100°F. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 60°F and 80°F, which promotes healthy growth. Avoid exposing spicebush to temperatures below 0°F, as this can cause damage to the plant.
PruningPrune spicebush in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Pruning is mainly for shaping the plant and removing any damaged or diseased branches. Pruning annually or biennially helps maintain its desired size and encourages healthy, vigorous growth. The best time for pruning is when the plant is still dormant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSpicebush prefers moist, well-draining, acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix composed of peat moss, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite can provide the desired texture and fertility.
RepottingSpicebush, being a fairly slow-growing shrub, doesn't require frequent repotting. It can be repotted every 3-5 years or when it has outgrown its current container.
Humidity & MistingSpicebush thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, which mimic its natural woodland habitat. The best humidity level for this plant is around 40-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Spicebush in bright, indirect light.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleSpicebush (Lindera benzoin) begins its life cycle as a seed, often dispersed by birds that consume the berries. The seed will undergo a period of dormancy until conditions are right, typically requiring a cold stratification process to break dormancy. Upon germination in the spring, the seedling emerges and develops into a small bush, undergoing vegetative growth characterized by the formation of simple, alternate leaves. As a dioecious plant, individual spicebush plants are either male or female, and they reach reproductive maturity within several years, producing clusters of tiny yellow flowers before the leaves emerge in early spring. Fertilized female flowers then develop into red, berry-like drupes that mature by fall and serve as a food source for wildlife, completing the reproduction stage. The perennial nature of spicebush allows it to live and continue its life cycle for many years, going through annual cycles of dormancy through winter, followed by vegetative growth and reproduction in spring and summer.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) is by seed. Seeds should be collected in the fall when the fruit turns red and sown immediately because they lose viability quickly when dried. The seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy; this can be accomplished by sowing them outdoors in the fall, allowing them to overwinter naturally. Alternatively, you can mimic this process by mixing the seed with moist sand and refrigerating it at around 33-40 degrees Fahrenheit (0.5-4.4 degrees Celsius) for 60-90 days before planting in the spring. Once germinated, the seedlings can be grown in containers until they are strong enough to be transplanted into their final position in the garden. Seed propagation can be slow and somewhat unpredictable, but it remains the most common because Spicebush does not propagate well through cuttings or other methods.
