Spicebush
Lindera benzoin · Lauraceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around spicebush and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, alternate, aromatic
- Flowering
- Late winter to early spring (February-March)
- Mature size
- 2 to 4 m tall × 2 to 3 m wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate to fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -25 °C)
- Origin
- North America (eastern United States)
- Soil type
- Rich, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Exposure
Place your spicebush in full sun or partial shade, ideally in a location sheltered from strong winds. A sunny exposure promotes more abundant flowering and better autumn foliage coloration.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year after planting to ensure good root establishment. Once established, the shrub tolerates dry periods well. Keep the soil slightly moist in summer, avoiding excess water that could cause rot.
Soil and planting
Choose soil rich in organic matter, well-drained and slightly acidic. Amend the soil at planting with compost or peat. The species appreciates locations with good atmospheric humidity.
Pruning and training
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a harmonious and balanced shape. Remove dead or diseased branches in early spring. Avoid severe pruning that weakens the plant.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and early summer to support growth. An annual application of compost at the base is generally sufficient for established plants. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Diseases and pests
Spicebush is relatively resistant to diseases. Occasionally watch for scale insects and aphids in greenhouse cultivation or very hot climates. Improved air circulation prevents most fungal problems.
Did you know?
Spicebush was traditionally used in Native American medicine and colonial pharmacopeias for its aromatic and tonic properties. Its small pale yellow flowers appear remarkably early in the season, sometimes even before the leaves emerge, providing a precious source of nectar for pollinating insects coming out of winter.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.