Home Prairie and Wetland Center
16245 S US Hwy 71
Belton, MO 64012
Tel: (816) 331-9738
Fax: (816) 331-9739

Lindera benzoin

Spicebush

Click here for print friendly version.
<< PREV Image 1 of 4 NEXT >>
Lindera benzoin (Spicebush)

This 2005 Missouri Botanical Garden Plants of Merit winner is a broad, rounded multi-stemmed shrub covered with fragrant, yellow-green flowers in March and April. In fall, the aromatic light green leaves turn a deep yellow-gold while birds feed on the small, brilliant red fruits produced on female plants. It is the host plant for the Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly.

Additional Information:


Height
6-12 Feet

spacer

Spread
6-12 Feet

spacer

Bloom/Seasonal Color
Light Green


USDA Hardiness Zone 4-9

Home Owner Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Good Companions
American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana), Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis), Wild Plum (Prunus americana), American Hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana), Indian Cherry; Carolina Buckthorn (Rhamnus caroliniana), Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), Tulip Poplar (Lirondendron tulipifera)

Characteristics & Attributes

Hydrologic Designation

FACW-

Nature Attracting

Songbird
Butterfly

Season of Interest

Late (July-frost)
Early (Feb-Apr)
Mid (May-June)

Soil Moisture

Moderate
High

Special Uses

Fragrant

Sun Exposure

Full Sun
Medium Sun/Average Shade

USFS MO Ecological Map

Wildlife Benefit

Butterfly Host
Food/Birds