Northern Spice Bush
Thrives in Zones 4-9
Attractive foliage throughout the year
Supports local wildlife and pollinators
Adaptable to various soil types
Ships in
November 2025Northern Spice Bush - Lindera benzoin
The Northern Spice Bush is a multi-stemmed, highly fragrant deciduous shrub that is known for its early-season flowering; it is a true harbinger of spring. It is a member of the Laurel family and native to the eastern North America. Naturally growing in dry forests, ravines, and bottomlands, it can also thrive in consistently moist soils such as around swamps and along streams.
It has graceful and elegant branches that when in flower are dotted with clusters of bright yellow flowers that have a very sweet fragrance. Like other early bloomers, the flower emerges before the leaves unfurl, creating an impressive floral display. Due to its early flowering, this plant provides an important food source for pollinators in the late winter and early spring.
Plant Details - Northern Spice Bush (Lindera Benzoin)
Family: Lauraceae
Hardiness Zones: 4â9
Light Requirement: Partial shade to full sun
Water Needs: Moderate to high
Height: 6 - 12 ft
Spread: 6 - 12 ft
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
Bloom Time: Early spring
Flower Color: Greenish-yellow
Wildlife Value: Berries feed birds like thrushes and vireos
The Northern Spice Bush is dioecious having female and male flowers on separate individuals. Once fertilized, the flowers develop fruit of a hot rod red that are an important food source for many small bird species. The bright red fruit, drupes, have a peppery taste and are aromatic like the flowers.
The ripe fruit of the female specimens can be dried and ground to make an allspice substitute. Crushed leaves of the spice bush also have a spicy fragrance. Young leaves can be used to make a delightful tea.
Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Northern Spice Bush (Lindera Benzoin)
It is a fast-growing shrub and does not have any serious pest and disease issues. It likes slightly acidic, well-drained soils, but will tolerate moist and shaded locations.
It prefers full sun to part shade. If growing this beautiful shrub in full sun, it will require more moisture, however you will reap the benefits as best flowering is achieved in full sun locations. Plant in a woodland garden or as a part of a mix shrub border
Noteworthy Characteristics of Northern Spice Bush
Early bloomer, easy to grow, attracts pollinators
This beautiful native will bring showy flowers in the spring, lush green foliage in the summer, yellow autumn leaves, and delightfully red berries at the beginning of winter, contributing splashes of color to the garden year-round. Shop for Northern Spice Bush shrubs online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.
This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery
Bloom Season
Spring
Bloom/Foliage Color
Yellow
Height at Maturity
Under 10 Feet
Care
Northern Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) thrives in well-drained, moist soil. Prune lightly to preserve shape and release any dead or damaged branches. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. It benefits from occasional fertilization in spring.
Plant Reproduction
Northern Spice Bush spreads by seeds dispersed by birds and mammals.
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Shrubs
Bare root shrubs are a budget-friendly and efficient way to plant during the cooler months when they’re dormant. Before planting, soak the roots in water for 3–6 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a site with the appropriate light exposure for the species—most flowering shrubs prefer full to partial sun. Dig a hole wide enough to spread out the roots and deep enough so the crown (where the roots meet the stems) sits level with the soil surface.
Mound a bit of soil at the bottom of the hole, spread the roots over it, and backfill with native soil while gently firming it to remove air pockets. Water deeply after planting to settle the roots. Keep the soil moist but not soggy during the first growing season to encourage healthy establishment.
Mulch around the base (not touching the stems) to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune lightly to remove any broken branches and to shape after the first flush of growth. With minimal care, bare root shrubs will leaf out beautifully and grow into reliable, long-term landscape anchors.
Shipping date depends on the date displayed and chosen when you order from the product's page.
We do not accept returned plants. If you purchased an extended warranty we do accept claims, please navigate to the warranty page for instructions HERE
Why You Will Love This Northern Spice Bush
Aromatic Foliage:
The leaves release a pleasant fragrance, adding a sensory delight to your garden.
Low Maintenance:
Northern Spice Bush is hardy and easy to care for, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Attractive Flowers:
Clusters of small yellow flowers in spring provide a burst of color and visual interest.
Vibrant Berries:
Red berries appear in the fall, adding seasonal color and attracting wildlife.
