Looking for an eye-catching and fragrant addition to your garden? Look no further than Lindera obtusiloba, also known as the Japanese Spicebush. This deciduous shrub or small tree can grow up to 6 meters tall and wide, with glossy, aromatic leaves that turn yellow in the autumn and deep yellow flowers that bloom in the spring before the leaves emerge. The young leaves are deep purple and lobed, giving the plant its name. Lindera obtusiloba has even earned the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit, making it a reliable and stunning addition to any landscape. But this plant isn't just a pretty face – it also contains the anti-histamine compound koaburaside and has been used as a hair oil. Plus, a water extract from the plant has been shown to inhibit mast-cell-derived allergic inflammation, suggesting it may have potential uses in treating allergic rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis. Give your garden a boost with Lindera obtusiloba!
