Spicebush

Scientific Nomenclature: Lindera benzoin

Common Names: spicebush, Northern spicebush, wild allspice, Benjamin bush

Mature Height: 6–12 feet

Mature Spread: 6–12 feet

Growth Rate: Moderate 

Attracts Wildlife: Pollinators, birds and mammals

Messiness: Spicebush leaves have a spicy aroma when crushed, hence its name. Fruit and leaves will drop in autumn.

Shape: Round

Native to Kentucky: Yes

Preferred Soils: Will flourish in several soil types but prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter content. Spicebush is also tolerant of occasionally wet or dry soils as well as occasional flooding.

Screening: Can be useful as a screening/privacy hedge when consciously planted this way.

Drought Tolerance: Is not heat or drought tolerant.

Coniferous or Deciduous: Deciduous

Pruning: Spicebush should be selectively pruned each year to maintain its form and density. New growth will form from the outermost buds left on the tree while pruning, so keep that in mind to ensure you keep its desired shape.

After being planted as a sapling, over the next 20 years one spicebush will:

• Sequester ~2,344 pounds of CO2.
• Reduce stormwater runoff by 330 gallons.