Northern Spice Bush

Northern 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: 4–9

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.

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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.

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