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Spice-Bush. Benjamin-Bush. Fever-Bush

Lindera Benzoin. Laurel Family.

An aromatic shrub from six to fifteen feet high. Leaves.--Oblong; pale underneath. Flowers.--Appearing before the leaves in March or April; honey-yellow; borne in clusters which are composed of smaller clusters, surrounded by an involucre of four early falling scales. Fruit.--Red; berry-like; somewhat pear-shaped.

These are among the very earliest blossoms to be found in the moist woods of spring. During the Revolution the powdered berries were used as a substitute for allspice; while at the time of the Rebellion the leaves served as a substitute for tea.