Spicebush, Northern

Let's take a closer look at the Northern Spicebush, scientifically known as Lindera benzoin. This shrub is one of the most common woodland shrubs in the Midwest, serving as an indicator of rich, moist soils. It can grow rather large, reaching up to 15 feet in height, and develops a wide-spreading, open crown from a few large stems. The mature bark is dark brown with a hint of green. The Spicebush features oblong-ovate, dull green leaves up to 6 inches long, which have smooth edges and a pale underside. These leaves turn a pretty yellow in autumn. In March, before the leaves appear, the Spicebush blooms with bright yellow flower clusters. Each flower has three petals and three sepals, which are leaf-like structures that protect the flower bud. All parts of the flower blend in with one another. By mid-fall, the shrub produces small, fire-engine red fruits that are highly prized by birds, rarely lasting until winter. Historically, during the Revolutionary War, these berries were used as a replacement for allspice. Interestingly, all parts of the Spicebush emit a spicy, lemon scent when crushed. Recently, the ambrosia beetle, introduced through ports in Georgia, poses a potential threat to the Spicebush. While it has killed other members of the same genus, the ambrosia bettle has yet to move north to the Midwest, where it might not survive the colder winters.