I have a multi stemmed clump tree/bush by my pond. I pulled it out as a stump (with tractor) from a wet area years ago for a client. I put it next to a pond I was making 15 years ago. It is now about twenty feet tall and 15 feet wide. Never gave it much thought, but liked its shape, bright yellow fall color. It sent out a small white flower clump for the first time ever about two weeks ago. I was unable to get a good picture due to its height and being over pond.

Anyway, my kid asked me what kind of tree it was. I have not seen it in the landscape trade & suspect it to be a native species. One other clew, the leaves have a pleasant citrus scent.

Pictures below, any help appreciated.

After looking at some plant ID sites, I am thinking this is a Lindera benzoin, or spicebush. It is the only plant I've found so far that looks like it and mentions its fragrance. Probably a male, or it never gets fertilized, as I don't recall ever seeing any fruit, and flowers scarce.

I thought it looked like Spice bush but is larger than the ones around my place. Crushed leaves smell like allspice/nutmeg etc.

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Brad Salmon, zone 9 Esparto, CA
www.needmorebamboo.com