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Oemleria cerasiformis

Indian Plum

Plant photo of: Oemleria cerasiformis
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Information by: W-E Plants for the Willamette Valle        Photographer:

 

Description

This Oregon native is a deciduous shrub that reaches 5-6' tall and 4-5' wide. Small green leaves are broad and oblong; young leaves have a cucumber-like flavor. Greenish white flowers bloom in spring, one of the first natives to bloom, found at the end of leafy branches. Orange-red, cherry-shaped fruit turn red-purple during fall but are quickly consumed by birds. They are considered edible when ripe if you like the astringent taste. This shrub tolerates full sun and will grow more vertical. If grown in shade, it will sprawl and sucker. This plant does well in wet areas as well as woodland areas.

 

Plant Type

Shrub

Height Range

3-6', 6-12'

Width Range

Flower Color

Green, White

Flower Season

Spring

Leaf Color

Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

Orange, Purple, Red

Fruit Season

Winter, Fall

Sun

Full, Half

Water

Low, Medium

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Loam

Soil Condition

Rich, Well-drained, Moist

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Seascape, Water Garden, Wetlands, Wild Garden, Woodland

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers, Specimen

Seasonal Interest

Spring

Location Uses

Background, Shrub Border, Patio, Park, Parking Lot, Raised Planter, Walkways

Special Uses

Cascade, Erosion Control, Mass Planting, Naturalizing

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.