spicebush (Lindera benzoin)
Family: Lauraceae
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| Form:
Large rounded shrub often reaching 8 ft. or taller. |
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Leaves: [if 789 not_equals=””] Shape: elliptical[/if 100] Margin: entire Texture: glabrous Variation: pinnate |
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| Bark:
Grayish brown to brown with white lenticels. |
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| Twigs and Buds:
It has gray to olive-green glabrous twigs. |
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| Flowers and Fruit:
Flowers usually appear as small paired yellow balls, but may occur in clusters. Fruit is a shiny red drupe. |
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| Distinguishing Characteristics:
When twig is cut or leaves are crushed a spicy, peppery smell is emitted. Alternately arranged. Red fruit is obvious in the fall |
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| Range:
Eastern half of the United States |
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| Silvics:
Shaded areas with moist to wet soils. Usually found on riverbanks and stream sides. |
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| Ecological and Cultural Importance:
Several edible and medicinal uses; fruit eaten by wildlife. |
