Maleberry

(Lyonia ligustrina)

Maleberry (Lyonia ligustrina)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lyonia ligustrina, commonly known as Maleberry, is a deciduous shrub native to a variety of habitats including moist to wet woods, bogs, and scrub areas in the Eastern and Southern United States. It typically grows up to 13 feet (4 meters) tall and can spread widely due to its long rhizomes, which may send up new stems up to 13 feet (4 meters) apart. The stems are characterized by longitudinally furrowed bark. The leaves are oval, measuring up to 4.1 inches (10.5 centimeters) long and 2 inches (5 centimeters) wide, and may be deciduous or semi-evergreen depending on the variety. Maleberry produces small, white flowers that are not particularly showy, followed by a small, dry capsule fruit.

Maleberry is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used for naturalizing in moist areas of the landscape. It is also appreciated for its wildlife value, as the dense thickets provide cover and the fruit is a food source for birds. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade, requires high amounts of water, and grows best in soils with medium to slow drainage. While not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can suffer from leaf spot and rust. Maleberry is not known for aggressive roots or significant invasiveness, making it a reliable choice for gardeners seeking a native shrub for wetland plantings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 6-12 feet
  • Width: 6-12 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

native to a variety of habitats including moist to wet woods, bogs, and scrub areas in the Eastern and Southern United States

Other Names

Common Names: He-Huckleberry, Seedy Buckberry, Seedy-Buckberry, Lyonie Faux-Troène, Lyonie Ligustrine

Scientific Names: , Lyonia ligustrina, Lyonia paniculata, Andromeda ligustrina, Xolisma ligustrina, Lyonia ligustrina f. nanella, Andromeda pilulifera, Arsenococcus ligustrina, Vaccinium ligustrinum, Andromeda racemosa

GBIF Accepted Name: Lyonia ligustrina (L.) DC.