Lindera obtusiloba aka Blunt Lobed Spicebush

Lindera obtusiloba is known as Japanese spicebush or blunt-lobed spicebush. It belongs to the laurel family, Lauraceae. Its native range spans Bhutan, China, Myanmar, Korea, and Japan. It grows in Asian valleys, mountain slopes, thickets, and small woods. This deciduous plant forms a large shrub or small tree. Several stems give it a rounded, bushy shape. Growth is slow, with maturity reached in 20–50 years.

Garden size varies between sources. NC State gives 10–15 feet [3–4.6 metres] for height and width. RHS lists a larger range of 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Young twigs are smooth and yellow-green, with fine lengthwise grooves. Older twigs turn brown and develop corky lenticels. The bark becomes dark brown or black. Leaves grow alternately along the stems. Each simple leaf feels leathery and has a glossy, dark green surface. Leaves have heart-shaped bases and may lack lobes or carry one to three. Their bright yellow fall color can last for weeks.

Small yellow to greenish-yellow flowers open before the leaves in early spring. Local warmth affects when they appear. The flowers grow in umbels and have six narrow tepals. Male flowers have nine stamens. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. Both sexes must grow nearby for females to produce fruit. The small, round fruit has a glossy skin. RHS describes red-brown berries; NC State says red fruit ripens black. Fruit adds color in fall.

Grow this plant in moist soil that drains well. It accepts clay, loam, and sand. Acid soil suits it, though NC State also lists neutral soil. RHS favors fertile soil, partial shade, and a sheltered woodland site. NC State allows full sun as well as partial shade. Hardiness ratings are USDA zones 6–9 and RHS H5. Its flowers and fall leaves suit woodland gardens and shrub borders. It also works as a specimen or in informal gardens. Both horticultural sources report few pest or disease problems.

Young buds and leaves serve as a tea substitute. Young leaves are also fried for a Buddhist ceremonial dish. PFAF records oil from the plant for use on hair. It lists no known medicinal uses or hazards. That hazard statement does not establish safety for every use.