Spicebush is a deciduous, aromatic shrub native to eastern North America. It is well-known for its fragrant leaves, yellow spring flowers, and bright red berries in the fall. This plant plays a crucial role in forest ecosystems, providing food and habitat for wildlife and serving as a host plant for several butterfly and moth species.
Size & Growth Habit
•Height: 6–12 feet
•Spread: 6–12 feet
•Growth Rate: Moderate
Growing Conditions
•Hardiness Zone: USDA zones 4–9
•Sunlight: Prefers partial shade to full sun
•Soil: Moist, well-draining soil; thrives in rich, loamy soils
•Watering: Prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established
Care Instructions
•Planting: Best planted in spring or fall; space plants 6–10 feet apart.
•Pruning: Minimal pruning required; can be shaped in late winter.
Blooming & Fruiting
•Flowers: Small, yellow, fragrant flowers bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge.
•Fruit: Female plants produce bright red berries in late summer to fall (requires a male plant for pollination).
Insects That Use Spicebush as a Host Plant
Butterflies & Moths (Lepidoptera)
•Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus) – The primary host plant for this butterfly.
•Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus) – Occasionally uses spicebush as a host.
•Promethea Silkmoth (Callosamia promethea) – A striking silk moth whose larvae feed on spicebush leaves.
•Small-eyed Sphinx Moth (Paonias myops) – A sphinx moth species that sometimes uses spicebush as a larval host.
Pollinators & Other Insects
•Bees & Native Pollinators – Spicebush flowers attract various bees, including bumblebees and mining bees.
•Beetles & Hoverflies – These insects also visit the flowers for nectar and pollen.
Wildlife Benefits
•Birds: The red berries are an important late-season food source for songbirds like thrushes, vireos, and robins.
•Mammals: Deer and rabbits may browse the leaves, though the strong fragrance makes it less palatable.
Uses & Benefits
•Ecological: Provides food and shelter for wildlife.
•Culinary: Leaves and twigs can be used to make a fragrant tea.
•Ornamental: Adds beauty to native gardens with its bright yellow flowers and vibrant fall foliage.
Companion Planting
Pairs well with other native woodland shrubs such as pawpaw (Asimina triloba), viburnums, and native ferns.