Spicebush
lindera benzoin
Also known as: ["Northern Spicebush","Wild Allspice"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to eastern North America, known for its aromatic leaves and twigs, and its small, yellow flowers that bloom in early spring.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Laurales |
| Family: | Lauraceae |
| Genus: | Lindera |
| Botanical Name: | Lindera benzoin |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: partially shaded woodland garden or shaded border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–28–43°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy, well-draining soil with organic matter; tolerates clay if well-drained.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun preferred); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun if moving from shade; protect from intense afternoon sun; suitable for both indoor and outdoor placement with appropriate light adjustments.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is best; avoid harsh afternoon rays; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
moist, well-drained, rich in organic matter
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–9; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 90°F; prefers cool roots and moderate air temperatures.
Protect from extreme cold; provide shade in hot weather; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; water well after application.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer; seeds in autumn after stratification.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds after cold stratification.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (70–75°F); partial shade.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; sterile seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seeds germinate in 1–3 months after stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, peat pots, misting spray bottle, heating mat.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage bushier growth; best done after flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or crossing branches; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch with organic material.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold or frost.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn yellow; growth slows or halts; potential for frost damage in extreme cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from cold winds; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below -20°F.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering or fruiting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also susceptible to mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume Lindera benzoin berries. The toxic compounds in the berries can cause digestive upset in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Lindera benzoin berries may result in mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds. The effects are generally not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicLindera benzoin, commonly known as spicebush, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The berries are the primary toxic part, containing essential oils and other secondary metabolites that may irritate the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Spicebush attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is a host plant for the spicebush swallowtail butterfly and attracts bees and birds.
Q: Is Spicebush toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: When does Spicebush bloom?
A: It blooms in early spring, typically March to April, with small yellow flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lauraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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