Lindera
| Lindera | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Genus: | Lindera |
| Family: | Lauraceae |
| Pollination: | insects |
Lindera is a genus of about 80-100 species of flowering plants in the family Lauraceae, mostly native to eastern Asia but with three species in eastern North America. The species are shrubs and small trees; common names include Spicebush and Benjamin Bush.
One of the world's rarest bee species, the andrenid bee Andrena lauracea is apparently a specialist on Lindera (see Lindera benzoin).
Description[edit | edit source]
The leaves can be either deciduous or evergreen depending on species, and are alternate, entire or three-lobed, and strongly spicy-aromatic. The flowers are small, yellowish, with six petaloid sepals and no petals. The fruit is a small red, purple or black drupe containing a single seed.
Growing conditions[edit | edit source]
Prefers rich, well-drained soils, but adapts well to poor soils. Part sun to dense shade.
Species[edit | edit source]
Uses[edit | edit source]
Maintenance[edit | edit source]
Propagation[edit | edit source]
Harvesting[edit | edit source]
Pests and diseases[edit | edit source]
Lindera species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species including The Engrailed.
