Lindera benzoin, commonly known as Spicebush, is a native North American shrub that grows in the understory of wooded areas, along streams, and in moist thickets. Gardeners appreciate its year round ornamental value. This graceful deciduous shrub blooms in early spring and fruits in late summer. Spicebush berries are a food source for many birds. Here at Heartwood, we've seen Cardinals and other birds strip a branch full of berries in a matter of minutes!