Spicebush and Spices: According to Wikipedia, the community got its name from the abundance of spices that were foraged in the surrounding hills. One particular plant, the spicebush (Lindera benzoin), is native to the area and may have been a key source of these spices [1].
Logging: Spice Run, the area where the community was located, was also named for the spicebush. This region experienced a logging boom thanks to the Spice Run Lumber Company. The company harvested trees and floated them down the Greenbrier River to sawmills. This logging activity was so extensive that it choked the waterways at times [3].
Another interesting detail is that Spice had a post office established in 1912. Unfortunately, the post office closed in 1943 [2].
While Spice may not be a bustling town today, its history reflects the importance of natural resources and the logging industry in West Virginia's past.
Spicebush is a valuable plant for both wildlife and humans. Here are some of its key characteristics:
Appearance: Spicebush can grow to be 6-12 feet tall and wide. It has glossy, oblong leaves that are about 3-5 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are a dark green color on top and a lighter green color underneath. In the fall, the leaves turn a bright yellow color. Spicebush flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge. The flowers are small and yellow, and they are clustered in groups of 3-5. The fruit of spicebush is a bright red drupe that ripens in the fall. The fruits are about ½ inch in diameter and they are attractive to birds.
Habitat: Spicebush is found in moist woodlands, forests edges, and riparian areas. It prefers partial shade to full shade.
Wildlife benefits: Spicebush is an important food source for wildlife. The leaves are eaten by deer, rabbits, and other mammals. The fruits are eaten by birds, such as turkeys, grouse, and songbirds. Spicebush is also a host plant for several butterfly species, including the spicebush swallowtail butterfly.
Human benefits: The leaves of spicebush can be used to make a tea that has a spicy flavor. The leaves can also be used to flavor stews and soups. The fruits of spicebush can be eaten raw or cooked. They have a tart flavor that is similar to cranberries. Spicebush is also a popular ornamental plant for landscaping. It is a low-maintenance plant that is deer-resistant.
Here are some additional facts about spicebush:
Spicebush is a dioecious plant, which means that there are separate male and female plants. Both male and female plants are needed for fruit production.
Spicebush is a fast-growing shrub that can reach maturity in 5-7 years.
Spicebush is a relatively long-lived plant that can live for 30-50 years or more.
Spicebush is a valuable plant that provides many benefits to both wildlife and humans. It is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for shrub that is a great addition to any landscape.
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