Description: Typically grows to 2-5 meters (6.5-16.5 feet) tall. Alternate, simple, elliptic to ovate, with a pointed tip and entire margin. Leaves are dark green in the summer and turn yellow to orange-red in the autumn. Small, yellow-green, and clustered in axillary umbels, blooming in early spring before the leaves emerge.
Distribution/Location: East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and parts of China. Cultivated in gardens and arboretums outside its native range, but not widely naturalized. Prefers moist, well-drained soils and is typically found in forest understories, along streams, and in mountainous regions. It thrives in partially shaded to fully shaded environments.
Environmental Concerns: Lindera erythrocarpa is not generally considered invasive. It has specific habitat requirements and does not typically spread aggressively outside its native range or cultivated settings. There are no major widespread diseases or pests specifically associated with Lindera erythrocarpa. General care for shrubs and small trees in similar environments would apply.
Other Information: The fruits are consumed by birds, which aids in seed dispersal. The plant can also provide habitat and food for various insects. The fruits are an important food source for birds and other wildlife. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
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