Oemleriacerasiformis - Indian Plum Is a Fast-Growing Shrub

Many gardeners love fast-growing shrubs in their gardens because of the lush appearance that these plants give to the area. One such fast-growing shrub is the Indian plum (Oemleriacerasiformis), which is also known as the osoberry. Interesting trivia: It is the sole species in its genus, the Oemleria.

Although the Indian plum is a shrub, it can also grow into a small tree when pruned on a regular basis to a single trunk. As a shrub, it can easily and quickly grow to be 10 feet to 15 feet tall with branches streaming out to 12 feet or more in width. Its growth has open rather than dense characteristics so sufficient space must be provided for the Indian plum to thrive.

Gardeners love the Indian plum for another reason - it is an early bloomer that heralds the coming of spring with its showy foliage. It is one of the first plants to show new growth during the first days of spring followed by its dainty flowers soon after.

Native Americans use the Indian plum for many other reasons aside from its beauty. The fruits can be eaten, the bark can be made into tea, and the twigs can be chewed as a mild anesthetic. It has even been used as a mild aphrodisiac but you may have second thoughts about it.

The Indian plum is also easy to propagate and cultivate. It is so versatile that it can be cultivated in both moist and dry conditions with a mix of sun and shade. For best results, experts suggest cultivation in dappled sun such as under conifers.

Supplemental water may be necessary once the Indian plum is established in its environs. Pruning is also recommended but be sure to prune only when necessary to produce either a shrub or a tree.

The Indian plum is also reportedly pest-free and disease-free but it still pays to check on the shrub once in a while. All of these qualities make the shrub a low-maintenance, trouble-free yet all-too-lovely addition to your garden especially when you want to attract birds and bees, among other pollinators.

But a word of caution: The white flowers may look dainty and, thus, you may be tempted to cut off a stem and bring the blooms inside. Don't do it because the smell is akin to cat urine. Just enjoy the sight of birds and bees feeding on the nectar and you will do just fine.