Spicebush is an attractive native shrub that attracts the black spicebush swallowtail butterfly and the tiger swallowtail butterfly. The caterpillar of this particular butterfly are found on two plants – the spicebush and sassafras. The vibrant yellow flowers bloom in March and fill the early spring air with fragrance open, even before the leaves begin to emerge. The flowers are packed with abundant nectar that help sustain butterflies and bees when little else is in bloom in the garden. In the fall, the fragrant leaves turn a soothing yellow-gold.

Both a male and female plant are required in order for the female plant to produce the brilliant red berries that are a good substitute for allspice. Covering the bushes with bird netting, or another light weight material such as a row cover will help prevent hungry birds from devouring the berries before you have the opportunity to harvest them, but be sure to leave some behind since these berries are one of the best sources of energy for migrating birds.

Spicebush is an ideal shrub for wildlife habitats since it provides both an area for birds to nest and a place where they can seek cover.

Spicebush is deer resistant and an ideal choice for damp, shady areas. It will thrive in full sun or part shade. The mature height and width of the plant ranges between 6 and 10 feet. Spicebush is hardy in U.S. Department of Agricultural hardiness zones 4 through 9.

This spicebush was grown from seed and has not been pruned.