Osoberry

(Oemleria cerasiformis)

Osoberry (Oemleria cerasiformis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Oemleria cerasiformis, commonly known as osoberry or Indian plum, is a deciduous shrub native to the understory of moist, lowland forests and along streambanks in the Pacific Northwest, from British Columbia, Canada to Santa Barbara County, California, U.S.A. It typically grows to a height of 1.5–5 m with a similar spread and has lance-shaped leaves 5–12 cm long. The plant is one of the earliest to leaf out in spring, with white or whitish-green, pendulous flowers about 1 cm across, blooming in late winter before the leaves emerge. These flowers are modest in showiness but are valued for their early appearance. The fruits resemble small plums, turning dark blue when ripe, and are a food source for local wildlife.

Osoberry is appreciated for its early bloom time, providing a nectar source for pollinators when few other plants are flowering. It is used in naturalized plantings, as a component of wildlife gardens, and for erosion control due to its suckering habit. The plant’s ability to thrive in a range of light conditions, from full sun to part shade, and its adaptability to various soil types with different drainage rates, make it a versatile choice for gardeners. It requires medium amounts of water and benefits from mulching to maintain soil moisture. While the fruit is edible, it is not widely cultivated for consumption. The wood’s strength and fine grain have made it valuable for specialized uses. Potential problems include susceptibility to leaf spot and powdery mildew, though these are generally not severe.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 8-20 feet
  • Width: 8-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Moist, lowland forests and streambanks in the Pacific Northwest

Other Names

Common Names: Oregon Plum, Oso Berry, Osoberry

Scientific Names: , Oemleria cerasiformis, Osmaronia cerasiformis, Nuttallia cerasiformis, Osmaronia demissa, Osmaronia padiformis, Osmaronia bracteosa, Osmaronia laurina, Osmaronia cerasiformis var. nigra, Osmaronia obtusa

GBIF Accepted Name: Oemleria cerasiformis (Torr. & A.Gray) J.W.Landon