Osoberry
oemleria cerasiformis
Also known as: ["Indian plum","Oregon plum"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to the Pacific Northwest, known for its early spring flowers and edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["early flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Oemleria |
| Botanical Name: | Oemleria cerasiformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container in a temperate climate
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to good drainage; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun if moving from shade; protect from intense afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; ideal for woodland or partially shaded garden spots.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is best; avoid harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 6–9; tolerates temperatures down to -15°C (5°F); prefers cool summers and mild winters.
Protect from frost in early spring; shield from intense summer heat; ensure good air circulation in warm weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only in spring; use a balanced formula; avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer; layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is flexible but mature enough to root.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (70–75°F/21–24°C); partial shade; consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or sandy loam with good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot or ground within 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading back to control size; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage air circulation; best done after flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead wood; shape gently.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–5 cm wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, browning leaf edges, or stunted growth in extreme heat; wilting or leaf discoloration in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; growth slows; young plants or new growth are most vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; cover with frost cloth during extreme cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering during prolonged heat; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; water after fertilizing; stop in late summer.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue fertilizing in late summer to avoid new growth vulnerable to frost.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe fruits of Oemleria cerasiformis are slightly toxic to cats if ingested. Similar to dogs, the toxicity arises from cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset. Cats are more sensitive to certain toxins, so even small amounts may cause noticeable symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe fruits of Oemleria cerasiformis can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested. The toxicity is primarily due to the presence of small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide in large quantities. The physiological impact is generally mild but can cause gastrointestinal upset or, in rare cases, more severe symptoms if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicThe fruits of Oemleria cerasiformis, commonly known as Indian plum or osoberry, are generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, consuming large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high fiber content and slightly astringent nature. The physiological impact is minimal, primarily limited to digestive upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oemleria cerasiformis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: When does Oemleria cerasiformis flower?
A: It flowers very early in spring, often before leaves emerge.
Q: Can the fruits of Oemleria cerasiformis be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible but tart and best used in preserves or cooked dishes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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