Spicebush (Lindera benzoin)

$12.00

Spicebush is an excellent shrub. It is deer resistant and the attractive yellow spring flowers provide a nectar source for many native insects and butterflies (illinoisewildflower.info). It is the host plant for the Spicebush Swallowtail, Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, and 8 other species of butterflies and moths in the area (nwf.org). The leaves are aromatic when crushed and turn a nice gold color in the fall with ornamental ripe red berries that provide an excellent food source for migratory birds before their long journey (Bird Table) (Audubon.org).

Photo credit: Melissa McMasters (1), Dan Keck (2) John Blair (3), Sheila Schanne (4: spicebush caterpillar)

Spicebush is an excellent shrub. It is deer resistant and the attractive yellow spring flowers provide a nectar source for many native insects and butterflies (illinoisewildflower.info). It is the host plant for the Spicebush Swallowtail, Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, and 8 other species of butterflies and moths in the area (nwf.org). The leaves are aromatic when crushed and turn a nice gold color in the fall with ornamental ripe red berries that provide an excellent food source for migratory birds before their long journey (Bird Table) (Audubon.org).

Photo credit: Melissa McMasters (1), Dan Keck (2) John Blair (3), Sheila Schanne (4: spicebush caterpillar)

Life Cycle: Perennial

Sun Exposure: Full, partial sun, light shade

Soil Moisture: Medium-wet, Medium

Height: 6-15 feet

Plant Spacing: 6-8 feet

Bloom Time: April-May

Bloom Color: Yellow

Advantages: Bird Favorite and Deer resistant

Host Plant: Spicebush Swallowtail, Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, and 8 other species of butterflies and moths use this as a caterpillar host plant in our area (nwf.org)

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