spicebush

Plant Type

Small Tree/Large Shrub (10-25 ft)

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

8-15 ft. tall
6-15 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Occasional Flooding

Inolerant of

Dry Soil

Propagation

By seed

Plant Propagation Notes

requires warm moist stratification followed by a cold moist stratification for germination. Sowing directly outdoors in the fall overcomes both dormancy requirements. Seeds do not store well and should be sown shortly after collection and cleaning.

Plant Planting Notes

Provide for up to 15 ft of canopy spread.

Plants/Diseases

No significant pests or diseases.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Host plant for butterfly larvae, Fruit/seeds for birds, Supports numerous caterpillars (bird food)

Leaves

The alternate leaves are strongly aromatic (when crushed), obovate to elliptic in shape with ciliate margins.

Flowers

The green/yellow flowers appear in clusters along the branches in spring before the leaves emerge. Very fragrant. Male flowers are larger and more showy than female flowers.

Fruit

Fruits are oblong drupes that change from green to bright red.

Bark

Light brown to light gray with prominent lenticels.

Toxicity

No known toxicity

Ethnobotanical Use

Leaves twigs and fruits have been used to make essential oils, teas, and sachets.

USDA Hardiness Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Light Exposure

Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture

Medium, Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Neutral (6.0-8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Rich alluvial forests, mesic forests on slopes, bottom lands, and swamps

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

The extensive native range of this species extends from sw Maine south to Georgia, west to south central Texas and north to Michigan