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.