Spicebush
(Lindera benzoin)

Other common names: Allspice

Family: Laurel Family (Lauraceae)

Distinctive features: Shrub, ;The leaves give off a unique spicy odour when rubbed or crushed. The twigs have this smell as well.

Similar species:
  •   Leatherwood (Dirca palustris) - branches are thicker, flowers are larger.


Flowers: Spring;  Yellow;  Indistinguishable parts (petals)

Leaves: Alternate;  Simple;  Entire;  Alternate, simple. Give off a very pungent odour when rubbed or crushed.

Height: 1-2 m (4-6 ft)

Habitat: Spicebush is a shrub of rich wet woods.

Books: Newcomb's Wildflower Guide: 442    Shrubs of Ontario: 127   

Native/Non-native: Native

Status: Common

For more information visit: Ontario Trees and Shrubs

Photographs: 196 photographs available, of which 13 are featured on this page. SCROLL DOWN FOR PHOTOGRAPHS.

A grove of Spicebush that are about 4-5 feet tall.

This photo shows the alternate arrangement of the leaves along the stems.

Leaves.

This close-up of a leaf shows that the upper surface is sometimes a little bit glossy.

Detail of top of leaf.

Detail of underside of leaf.

Winter twig. Note the small round buds.

Another photo of the buds.

Flowers in spring.

Close-up of flowers. They come out before the leaves.

Leaves just starting to come out in the spring.

Fruit (not yet ripe).

Bark.

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