Osoberry – Bundle of 5 Bare Root Plants

Oemleria cerasiformis
Sold as: Bare Root Plants

Osoberry (Oemleria cerasiformis) is a common staple of our local mature forest understory. Formerly known as Indian Plum, this deciduous shrub is one of the earliest plants to bloom. In February, you will be greeted by Osoberry’s lime green leaves peeking out as a sign of spring’s return. One way to tell an Osoberry apart from lookalikes is the strong cucumber scent that the leaves and buds produced when they are crushed between the fingers. Osoberry plants are monoecious, meaning there is a male, pollen-rich plant and a female, berry-bearing plant. Both male and female plants are needed to bear fruit. This is a great addition to attract more wildlife, especially birds who dine on the small plum-like berries. Osoberry flowers come in small, white, downward hanging clusters.

Classification: Perennial
Key Characteristics: Early bloom, small plum-like berries
Light Requirements: Full sun to full shade
Water Requirements: Dry to moist soil
Ease of Growing: High
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: February – April
Spreads: By seed
Benefits: Wildlife, Rain garden, Pollinators, Beneficial insects, Wildfire resistant, Riparian zones, Deer resistant, Hummingbirds
Edible: Yes
Mature Height: 15 feet
Mature Width: 5-10 feet

USDA Plant Database

Photo Credits:
Image 1: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz via Wikimedia Commons
Image 2: Maja Dumat via Wikimedia Commons