Native Habitat:
Moist forests, streambanks, and forest edges along the Pacific Coast, including the Willamette Valley. Prefers well-drained, fertile soils in cool, shaded to partially sunny areas.
 
Bloom Time:
April – June
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Deciduous tree, typically 20–40 feet tall with a rounded crown. Produces large, showy white bracts surrounding small yellow-green flowers in spring, followed by clusters of red berries in late summer.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Full sun to partial shade; prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soils. Tolerates partial shade but performs best in filtered sunlight.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Tolmiea menziesii, Camassia leichtlinii, Achlys triphylla, Polystichum munitum, Mahonia aquifolium.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Provides dramatic spring floral display and multi-season interest with foliage, flowers, and berries. Ideal for urban habitat gardens, parks, and large residential landscapes. Works well as a specimen tree, in layered native plantings, or along streets and pathways to provide vertical structure and seasonal color.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Flowers attract native bees, bumblebees (Bombus spp.), and syrphid flies. Berries are eaten by songbirds, including thrushes and cedar waxwings. Dense branching provides shelter and nesting habitat for small birds and insects.
 
Historical Use:
Berries, bark, and leaves were used by Indigenous peoples for food, medicine, and dye. Wood was valued for tools and ceremonial items.