Native Habitat:
Open forests, forest edges, and riparian areas
 
Bloom Time:
May – July
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Deciduous shrub, 3–6 feet tall, with arching, spreading stems and small, oval leaves. Produces clusters of small, pink to white flowers followed by round, white berries.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in sandy, loamy, or silty soils. Tolerates seasonal dryness and a range of soil conditions once established.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Cornus sericea, Tolmiea menziesii, Polystichum munitum, Camassia leichtlinii, Achlys triphylla.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Provides seasonal flowers, striking white winter berries, and dense structural foliage in urban gardens, naturalized landscapes, and riparian plantings. Works well as a layered shrub, hedgerow, or habitat-supportive specimen.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Flowers attract native bees and butterflies. Berries provide food for birds, and dense branching offers shelter and nesting habitat for insects and small mammals.
 
Historical Use:
Berries and branches were used by Indigenous peoples for food, dye, and medicinal purposes. Valued ornamentally for winter berry interest, wildlife habitat, and ecological function in naturalized and restoration gardens.