Lindera benzoin, commonly known as spicebush, is a deciduous native shrub valued for its aromatic foliage, early yellow blooms, and bright red berries. It plays a vital role in woodland ecosystems as a larval host plant and food source. Its golden fall foliage adds seasonal color and ecological richness to shade gardens.
Height & Spread: 6 - 12 ft x 6 - 12 ft
Bloom Time: Early spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, slightly acidic soils
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers moist, woodland like conditions
Deer Resistance: Some resistance; foliage may be browsed in high pressure areas
Native Status
Native to eastern North America, Lindera benzoin is commonly found in moist woodlands, along streams, and in shaded thickets.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Host plant for the Spicebush Swallowtail, Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, and Promethea Moth caterpillars.
Birds
- Red berries are consumed by songbirds such as Northern Cardinals, Eastern Towhees, and Wood Thrushes.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 6 - 8 ft apart in naturalized plantings or woodland gardens.
Landscape Placement
- Best used in shady borders, along woodland edges, or near water features. Useful in native and pollinator gardens as a key larval host shrub.
Companion Plants
- Asarum canadense (Wild Ginger) - Provides a lush groundcover beneath spicebush in woodland settings.
- Aruncus dioicus (Goats Beard) - Adds texture and creamy plumes to shaded borders with similar soil needs.
- Polygonatum biflorum (Solomons Seal) - Offers graceful arching stems and thrives under spicebush canopy.
- Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Adds spring blooms and textured foliage in shaded native plantings.
- Osmunda cinnamomea (Cinnamon Fern) - Complements spicebush with bold, upright fronds and moist soil compatibility.