Osoberry

Osoberry is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the Pacific Northwest, often found in moist forests, riparian areas, and forest edges. It is one of the earliest plants to bloom, leaf out, produce fruits, color for autumn, and lose its leaves each year, often flowering as early as February, before the leaves have formed. These flowers develop into bright orange fruits which ripen to dark purple plum-like fruits in summer, and are an important food source for birds and small mammals. Osoberry thrives in partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soils, making it a valuable early-blooming species that supports pollinators and contributes to wildlife habitat and forest understory diversity.