Planting Two Northern Spicebush Shurbs – Lindera benzoin

Originially posted September 11, 2020

This past week, two Northern Spicebush shrubs (Lindera benzoin) were added.  I was interested in these plants for a few reasons.  One, as a screen along on side of the house.  Secondly, they are the host plant for the Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillar.  The soil dept was a bit shallow in this part of the yard, so I had to build it up a bit using the turf and garden soil amendments.  I will also mulch around the plants, but will do it later as part of a broader mulching this Fall.

Northern Spicebush – Lindera benzoin

• Zones 4 to 9
• Sun to partial sun/shade
• Height –  6 to 12 feet high
• They grow in moist soil, and can tolerate drought conditions.
• Leaves have a spicy aroma when crushed.
• Spicebush is the host plant for the Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillars.

https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/spicebushhttps://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=libe3