Osoberry (Oemleria cerasiformis)

Osoberry is an early-blooming, multi-stemmed shrub that thrives in shady areas. It signals the beginning of spring each year, with hanging clusters of lovely white flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring, while the branches of other deciduous trees and shrubs are still bare. The early season flowers are a valuable food source for native bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. The fruits ripen in summer to a dark blue colour, and are loved by birds; they are also edible to humans, with a cucumber-like taste, although they can be bitter until fully ripe, and have a large pit. Both a male and a female plant are needed to produce fruit. This fast-growing shrub can handle a range of conditions, but is happiest in dappled shade; it is a great choice for shady woodland gardens, restoration plantings, and bird habitat.

Sun Exposure: Part shade, shade
Soil & Moisture: Moist to seasonally dry, humus-rich, well-drained soil.
Mature Size: Up to 15' tall and wide
Bloom Time: Late winter to spring
Edible: yes
Wildlife Value: Early-season nectar source for native bees. Attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. Moth host plant. Fruits eaten by birds and mammals. Provides cover and nesting sites. 
Native Range & Habitat: Lowland forests, open woodland and riparian areas at low elevations. Southern British Columbia to southern California.
Other Names: Indian plum, june plum, smelhx̱weláy̓ (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh sníchim)