Spicebush
Spicebush is a native shrub that offers fragrant yellow flowers in early spring and bright red berries in late summer. Growing 6-12 feet tall and wide, it thrives in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. The berries are aromatic and medicinal and can be used in herbal teas, while its leaves have a spicy scent – orange zest, cypress, juniper, fresh pine, and pepper – making it a fantastic addition to a woodland garden.
Spicebush is a native shrub that offers fragrant yellow flowers in early spring and bright red berries in late summer. Growing 6-12 feet tall and wide, it thrives in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. The berries are aromatic and medicinal and can be used in herbal teas, while its leaves have a spicy scent – orange zest, cypress, juniper, fresh pine, and pepper – making it a fantastic addition to a woodland garden.
Spicebush is a native shrub that offers fragrant yellow flowers in early spring and bright red berries in late summer. Growing 6-12 feet tall and wide, it thrives in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. The berries are aromatic and medicinal and can be used in herbal teas, while its leaves have a spicy scent – orange zest, cypress, juniper, fresh pine, and pepper – making it a fantastic addition to a woodland garden.
Spicebush is a native shrub that thrives in woodland gardens, offering fragrant yellow flowers in early spring, followed by bright red berries in late summer. Growing 6-12 feet tall and wide, it thrives in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Spicebush is known for its aromatic leaves and berries, which can be used to make herbal teas or used as a spice in cooking — somewhat like allspice. Its vibrant red berries and fragrant flowers make it an excellent addition to any garden that appreciates both beauty and utility.
Spicebush is native to the eastern U.S. and has been used for centuries by Indigenous peoples. The plant’s leaves, bark, and berries were used to make medicinal teas and infusions, which were believed to aid digestion, treat colds, and relieve pain. The berries were also used to flavor food, and their distinctive spicy aroma made them a popular ingredient in cooking.
In the garden, Spicebush is an excellent choice for shaded areas or woodland gardens, where its aromatic qualities can be fully appreciated. The bright red berries can be harvested and used to make a flavorful herbal tea, while the leaves can be used to make a fragrant infusion. Spicebush adds a unique scent to the landscape, and its early spring flowers provide an important nectar source for pollinators.
Zone Range: 4-9
Sun Requirements: Partial shade
Size at Maturity: 6-12 feet tall, 6-12 feet spread
