Northern Spicebush

Native to the United States, the Northern Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) is an attractive shrub that blooms in the spring with chartreuse-lemon flowers before the arrival of its lush green oval leaves. These blooms attract a variety of pollinators and develop into shiny cherry red berries, attracting birds and turning your garden into a haven for wildlife. In the fall, the leaves of the Northern Spicebush turn bright yellow, and after they drop, the red berries continue to provide interest. This shrub gets its name from the spicy aroma produced by the plant's stems and leaves, noticeable when pruning or rubbing the leaves. 

The Northern Spicebush grows in an oval, upright habit. At 6-10 feet tall and wide, the Northern Spicebush can be used as a screen or hedge. This shrub is both low maintenance and deer resistant, making it an ideal choice for woodland gardens. The Northern Spicebush is a dioecious plant, meaning that male and female flowers are located on separate plants – a male plant should be planted with a female plant in order to achieve berry production.

Northern Spicebush Care

To plant the Northern Spicebush, dig a hole that is twice the width and as deep as the root ball. While this shrub will grow easily in a variety of conditions, it will do best in average-to-moist, well-draining soil. The Northern Spicebush can grow in shade to sun, but will maintain a tighter shape in more light. This plant does not tolerate drying out, so plant it in a partially shaded area in warmer climates. Fertilize the Northern Spicebush with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring. 

To maintain the Northern Spicebush’s shape, light pruning can be done in the spring once the plant has finished blooming. As a native plant, it is best to allow the Northern Spicebush plenty of room to grow to its natural size, which in turn will make it a lower-maintenance plant. As this native plant is a host to butterflies such as the black and blue spicebush swallowtail, take care to avoid using chemicals and allow caterpillars to feed.

Northern Spicebush Spacing

Plant the Northern Spicebush at least 10 feet away from other plants and structures to allow it plenty of room to grow and spread. Place shrubs slightly closer together to create a tight hedge.