Spicebush (Lindera benzoin)
Spicebush is an excellent shrub. It is deer resistant and the attractive yellow spring flowers provide a nectar source for many native insects and butterflies (illinoisewildflower.info). It is the host plant for the Spicebush Swallowtail, Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, and 8 other species of butterflies and moths in the area (nwf.org). The leaves are aromatic when crushed and turn a nice gold color in the fall with ornamental ripe red berries that provide an excellent food source for migratory birds before their long journey (Bird Table) (Audubon.org).
Photo credit: Melissa McMasters (1), Dan Keck (2) John Blair (3), Sheila Schanne (4: spicebush caterpillar)
Spicebush is an excellent shrub. It is deer resistant and the attractive yellow spring flowers provide a nectar source for many native insects and butterflies (illinoisewildflower.info). It is the host plant for the Spicebush Swallowtail, Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, and 8 other species of butterflies and moths in the area (nwf.org). The leaves are aromatic when crushed and turn a nice gold color in the fall with ornamental ripe red berries that provide an excellent food source for migratory birds before their long journey (Bird Table) (Audubon.org).
Photo credit: Melissa McMasters (1), Dan Keck (2) John Blair (3), Sheila Schanne (4: spicebush caterpillar)
Spicebush is an excellent shrub. It is deer resistant and the attractive yellow spring flowers provide a nectar source for many native insects and butterflies (illinoisewildflower.info). It is the host plant for the Spicebush Swallowtail, Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, and 8 other species of butterflies and moths in the area (nwf.org). The leaves are aromatic when crushed and turn a nice gold color in the fall with ornamental ripe red berries that provide an excellent food source for migratory birds before their long journey (Bird Table) (Audubon.org).
Photo credit: Melissa McMasters (1), Dan Keck (2) John Blair (3), Sheila Schanne (4: spicebush caterpillar)
Life Cycle: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Full, partial sun, light shade
Soil Moisture: Medium-wet, Medium
Height: 6-15 feet
Plant Spacing: 6-8 feet
Bloom Time: April-May
Bloom Color: Yellow
Advantages: Bird Favorite and Deer resistant
Host Plant: Spicebush Swallowtail, Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, and 8 other species of butterflies and moths use this as a caterpillar host plant in our area (nwf.org)
