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Spice Bush
The Spicebush, Lindera bezoin, is a native deciduous shrub with a broad, rounded habit which typically grows 6-12' high. Clusters of tiny, aromatic, greenish-yellow flowers bloom along the branches in early spring before the foliage emerges. Flowers of female plants give way to bright red drupes (to 1/2" long) which mature in fall and are attractive to birds. Female plants need a male pollinator in order to set fruit, however. Drupes are very attractive, but are largely hidden by the foliage until the leaves drop. Thick, oblong, light green leaves (to 5" long) turn an attractive yellow in autumn. Leaves are aromatic when crushed. The larva (caterpillar) of the spicebush swallowtail butterfly feeds on the leaves of this shrub. Lindera is named for the Swedish botanist, Johann Lindler. It is used for shrub borders, shade or woodland gardens, moist areas along streams or ponds, native plant gardens or naturalized plantings. They are easily grown in average, medium wet, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Fall color is best in sunny areas. Tolerates full shade, but habit becomes more open and wide-spreading. ... more information
Chokeberry - Black The Black Chokeberry, Aronia melanocarpa 'black', is an open, upright, spreading, somewhat rounded but leggy, deciduous shrub which typically grows 3-6’ tall. Lustrous, dark green foliage turns an attractive purplish red in autumn. Although technically edible, the fruits are extremely tart and bitter, and are not recommended for eating off the bush. Attractive fall color and fruit give this shrub good ornamental value for a shrub border. Its ability to withstand wet conditions makes it suitable for growing along ponds, streams or water gardens. Tolerant of wide range of soils. Best fruit production occurs in full sun. |
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