Spicebush
Deciduous shrub reaching 2-4 m tall. Features oval aromatic leaves and small yellow flowers appearing before leaves in early spring. Female plants produce bright red berries. Prefers moist, rich woodland soils and partial shade. Spectacular golden-yellow fall color. Important wildlife plant and host for spicebush swallowtail butterfly. Suitable for woodland gardens and naturalized areas. Native to eastern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Yellow
Bloom Time: Early Spring
Sun Requirements: Part-Shade to Shade
Moisture: Moist-Drained
Phenology: Leaves emerge late April-May. Small yellow flowers appear March-April before leaves on female plants. Bright red berries develop on female plants August-September. Brilliant yellow fall color develops October. Bare stems show green color in winter.
Wildlife Value: Berries eaten by >20 bird species; important early nectar source for native bees; host plant for spicebush swallowtail butterfly; provides excellent wildlife cover
Habit Over Time: Develops into large shrub with multiple stems from base. Spreads minimally through occasional bird-dispersed seedlings. Maintains architectural form while providing excellent wildlife habitat.
Height: Medium to Tall (6-12 feet)