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Description
Lindera Benzoin, commonly known as the Spicebush Plant, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It is a member of the Lauraceae family and can grow up to 20 feet tall. The plant has a unique fragrance and produces small yellow flowers in early spring. The female plants also produce bright red berries in the fall, which attract birds and other wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————-|———–|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Magnoliophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Laurales|| Family| Lauraceae || Genus| Lindera|| Species| L. Benzoin |
Appearance
The Spicebush Plant has a dense, rounded form and can grow up to 20 feet tall. The leaves are ovate and glossy, with a bright green color that turns yellow in the fall. The plant produces small yellow flowers in early spring, which are followed by bright red berries on the female plants. The bark is light brown and has a spicy fragrance when crushed.
Care Guide
To care for Lindera Benzoin, you should provide it with well-drained soil and partial shade. The plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. The Spicebush Plant is hardy to USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Spicebush Plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites, which can be treated with insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Lindera Benzoin is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, woods, and along stream banks. The plant is commonly found in the eastern United States, from Maine to Florida and west to Texas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lindera Benzoin a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the Spicebush Plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, coughs, and arthritis.
Q: Can Lindera Benzoin be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-drained soil and partial shade.
Q: Does Lindera Benzoin attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the bright red berries on the female plants attract birds and other wildlife.
Q: What is the best time to prune Lindera Benzoin?
A: The best time to prune the Spicebush Plant is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Lindera Benzoin:- Lindera Angustifolia- Lindera Obtusiloba- Lindera Triloba- Persea Americana
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. “Lindera Benzoin.” Accessed April 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a684.- NC State Extension. “Lindera Benzoin.” Accessed April 22, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lindera-benzoin/.- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. “Lindera Benzoin.” Accessed April 22, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LIBE2.
