Spicebush
About Spicebush
Spicebush is a deciduous shrub that may grow to 8 to 15 feet. It can be found in rich forests, dry forests on slopes, and swamps. In early spring, small, yellow flowers mature in axillary clusters. The shrub produces a bright red drupe with a peppery taste and scent.
Taxonomy
Lindera benzoin
Lindera
Lauraceae
Laurales
Also known as
Common spicebush, Northern spicebush, Wild allspice and Benjamin bush

How to care for Spicebush

How often to water your Spicebush

every 9
Spicebush needs 0.5 cups of water every 9 when it doesnât get direct sunlight and is potted in a 5" pot located in Los Angeles, California.
Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants.
Water 0.5 cups every
9

Check the growing potential in your area
A plant's growing potential is determined from its location, the time of year, and current local weather.
Los Angeles, California
56% Medium

Finding light for Spicebush in your home

a window
Spicebush love being close to bright, sunny windows đ.
Place it less than 1ft from a south-facing window to maximize the potential for growth.
Spicebush does not tolerate low light đ«.
Los Angeles, California currently has medium levels of sunlight intensity, you can help this plant grow by treating it to ample light âïž.

How to fertilize Spicebush

Most potting soils come with ample nutrients which plants use to produce new growth.
By the time your plant has depleted the nutrients in its soil itâs likely grown enough to need a larger pot anyway.
To replenish this plant's nutrients, repot your Spicebush after it doubles in size or once a yearâwhichever comes first.

Spicebush is generally considered an easy-to-care-for plant and makes a great choice for beginners!
Water Needs
Spicebush prefers for the soil to dry out between waterings and should be watered regularly. Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants.
Sunlight Needs
Spicebush requires abundant, bright and direct light. Place it less than one foot from a window to ensure it receives enough light to survive đȘ. Select your region to see how the current weather in your area affects the placement in your home đĄ.
Toxicity
Greg does not have confirmed data on this plantâs toxicity. If you, a family member, or a pet consumes plant material of unknown toxicity, itâs always best to consult a medical professional.
If you or someone else ingested this plant, call Poison Control at US (800) 222-1222. If a pet consumed this plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA at US (888) 426-4435.
Soil
Spicebush does best in well-draining soil. A good soil will contain lots of organic matter such as coco coir as well as perlite or vermiculite to help with drainage. Adding a handful of perlite to regular store-bought potting soil should do the trick!
Fertilizer
Spicebush grows very slowly and doesnât require added fertilizer. Replacing your plantâs potting soil once a year should provide them with more than enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not fertilizer!
Growth Pattern
Spicebush will branch off as it grows. To encourage branching, pinch off the newest growth at the tip and the stem will branch off into two.
Growing Outdoors
USDA Hardiness Zone
Spicebush can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 5a-9b. Find your local hardiness zone here.
Care Summary for Spicebush
Spicebush
Greg recommends:

0.5 cups every 9 days

< 1ft from a window

Repot after 2x growth
Based on your location in Los Angeles, California, the 4â pot your plant is in, and that it doesnât get direct sunlight.
