Holodiscus discolor (Ocean Spray)

Spectacular in full bloom, Holodiscus discolor (Ocean Spray) is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with slender, straight to slightly arching stems. The long, straight, hard branch wood was highly prized by Native Americans for making arrow shafts, as well as digging sticks, fishing hooks, and needles. The foliage is broadly ovate, deeply lobed, and toothed. The deep green leaves, 3 in. long (7 cm), are white and hairy underneath. In late spring to late summer, the shrub is covered with delicate clouds of fragrant, creamy-white flowers arranged in large, pendent, plumed clusters that may reach 12 inches (30 cm) long. They attract hummingbirds, bees, and other beneficial insects. The flowers give way to tiny, light brown fruits that often persist into fall and winter. The attractive reddish exfoliating bark on old specimens provides winter interest. Native to Western North America, this breathtaking plant is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, dry to moist conditions, and sun or shade. A colorful reclaimer of open or disturbed lands, Ocean Spray also lends charm to the sunny woodland setting.

• Grows up to 3-20 ft. tall (90-600 cm) and 4-15 ft. wide (120-450 cm). Can grow to 3 ft. tall (90 cm) in dry soils to 20 ft. in moist, rich soils.
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in dry to moist, fertile, well-drained soils. Tolerates full shade but will grow slower. Ocean Spray is highly drought tolerant.
• Low maintenance, this plant needs little pruning. Remove only a few older shoots each year after flowering.
• No serious pest and disease issues.
• Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings, suckers, and seeds. Seeds require cold stratification for up to 18 weeks.
• Native to the western United States and southwestern Canada.