Spicebush (Lindera benzoin)

This plant is thought of as the “forsythia of the wilds” because its early spring flowering gives a subtle yellow tinge to many lowland woods where it is common. A small amount of sun yields a bush with better form. The Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly spends its childhood on a spicebush. Beyond being a crucial host plant, it provides tasty berries for birds. In the summer it has a beautiful horizontal, leafy form, to return to its equinox color of yellow. Every part of the plant is aromatic, and you can use the twigs or leaves to make a lovely tea.