Lindera glauca

Lindera glauca is a shrub or small tree that sheds its leaves. It belongs to the laurel family, Lauraceae. Grayblue spicebush is one of its common names. It comes from parts of east and southeast Asia. Its range includes China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and parts of Indochina. It grows in forests and by roads on mountain slopes. In China, records place it below 2,953 feet [900 metres]. It grows in mixed woods where trees shed their leaves.

Plants For A Future says plants reach 16 feet [5 metres]. They often have more than one main stem. Useful Tropical Plants gives a top height of 26 feet [8 metres]. These figures show a shrub that can grow into a small tree. Its leaves have a scent, and its flowers have a star shape. Plants For A Future gives fruit colours from red to black. Its growing notes for the species place bloom in mid-spring. Records list uses for the leaves, fruit walls, seeds, and wood.

Plants For A Future lists sun or part shade for growing. Soils can range from sandy loam to those made chiefly of clay. It gives a soil pH range of 4.5 to 6.5. The plant needs moist soil, based on those notes. The same source places it at sunny edges of woodland gardens. The evidence for this species gives no firm winter hardiness range. It also gives no clear account of pests or diseases. Reports on named varieties should not fill these gaps.

People use the fruit to season food much like pepper. They also grind dried leaves to flavour noodles and dumplings. Both sources list these food uses for the species. They report no known hazards but do not assess pet safety. Records list roots, young branches, leaves, and fruit for use as medicine. The evidence does not explain these treatments or show their effects. Oils from the leaves and fruit walls go into incense. People use seed oil in soap and to help parts move smoothly. They also use the wood for woodworking.

Useful Tropical Plants lists three ways to grow new plants. These are seed, cuttings, and layering. Sow ripe seed soon, as it soon loses its power to sprout. Keep the seed from drying out before you sow it. Move seedlings into their own pots once large enough to handle. Let them grow more before you plant them out. Cuttings of half-ripe wood offer another way to grow new plants.