Lindera benzoin 'Scarlet Lady' (Spicebush)

Lindera benzoin ‘Scarlet Lady’ – Spicebush

‘Scarlet Lady’ is a female selection of native spicebush valued for its wildlife benefits and multi-season interest. Small, fragrant yellow flowers appear in early spring, providing an important early nectar source for pollinators.

By late summer, bright red berries develop and provide food for songbirds and migrating birds. The foliage turns clear yellow in fall, adding color to woodland edges, native gardens, and partly shaded landscapes. Spicebush also serves as a larval host plant for the Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly.

Because spicebush plants are either male or female, a male Lindera benzoin should be planted nearby for pollination and berry production.

Plant Details:
Height: 6–10 feet
Spread: 6–10 feet
Light: Full sun to part shade
Zones: 4–8
Soil: Moist, rich, well-drained

Features:
Native shrub
Female selection with bright red berries
Fragrant yellow flowers in early spring
Supports pollinators and songbirds
Host plant for Spicebush Swallowtail
Yellow fall foliage
Best berry production with a male spicebush nearby