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Spicebush (Lindera benzoin)
Growing at a dense mixed hardwood/coniferous forest edge (along a dirt road) in Gordon County, GA.
Lindera benzoin is the host plant for several Lepidoptera: The Spice Bush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus), the Promethea Moth (Callosamia promethea), and the Tulip Tree Beauty (Epimecis hortaria).
It is easily recognizable by its red fruits in late summer/fall. It can easily be identified (in any season), by the lemony, camphorous odor its leaves and young branches exude. All parts are forageable. Leaves and twigs can be made into teas whilst the fruit can be dried and ground into a spice (thus the common name).
"Lindera benzoin" is a shrub in the laurel family, native to eastern North America, ranging from New York to Ontario in the north, and to Kansas, Texas, and northern Florida in the center and south. Within its native range it is a relatively common plant where it grows in the understory in moist, rich woods, especially those with exposed limestone.
