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| Hummingbird Heaven: The Indian Plum posted on 03/02/2010
Now that our stream side areas and yards have been rid of invasive, non-native plants, let’s finish the job.
There are many native species well-suited to our local growing conditions — and none more so than the Indian plum, or Osoberry.
“You can tell that spring is on the way when you see the Indian plum in bloom,” said Russ Plaeger of the Sandy River Basin Watershed Council. “Planting natives that are suited to the growing conditions in an area where you’ve removed invasive plants is a good way to improve your property.”
Indian plum is a native shrub that is found locally in moist to dry open forests and stream bank areas. It is recognizable by its early flowers blooming in March. The attractive clusters of small, greenish-white flowers provide early season nectar source for Anna’s hummingbirds.
When both male and female plants are present clusters of small bluish-black fruits will be produced. These delectables are much sought after by birds and mammals.
Indian plum grows well in part sun to full shade and can reach a size of 15 feet tall and up to 10 feet wide. Its roots have good soil binding characteristics which can help minimize soil erosion and thus maintain water quality for salmon and other aquatic species.
“The watershed council encourages local residents to regard a healthy, native plant community in stream side areas as a resource both for their property and for the river,” Plaeger said. “Our native trees and shrubs help to stabilize banks, reduce erosion and provide shade on hot summer days.”
It makes solid environmental sense to work with native plants on your site — such as Indian plum — rather than clearing them out and replacing them with exotic species. The natives are adapted to the local climate, don’t need fertilizer and many species can be pruned to meet the needs of individual properties.
Plaeger points out there are useful reference books for people who would like to grow more native plants, such as: “Landscaping for Wildlife in the Pacific Northwest” by Russell Link; “Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast” by Pojar & MacKinnon; and “The Sunset Western Garden Book.”
by Larry Berteau/MT
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