Wild Allspice
Lindera benzoin
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
72"–120" H × 72"–120" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Wild allspice is a native shrub that forms a rounded, medium-sized bush with glossy green leaves that turn bright yellow in fall. It produces small, fragrant yellow flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge, followed by red berries on female plants. This adaptable shrub thrives in partial shade and moist, well-drained soils.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wild Allspice is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
Host plant for Spring Azure butterfly.
The early spring blooms provide crucial nectar for native bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. The berries are eaten by birds, and the foliage serves as a host plant for spicebush swallowtail butterfly caterpillars.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Wild Allspice fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.