Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Coastal BC Plants: Oceanspray

Oceanspray

On the granite cliff next to our cabin, there's a section where soil clings to the rocky surface. On a narrow ledge, an Oceanspray (Holodiscus discolor) plant grows.

Oceanspray grows from 1-4 metres tall. Mine is in the two metre range. In addition to rocky slopes, it can be found in clearings, thickets and forest edges. In summer, the plant is covered with drooping cream-coloured flower clusters.  It attracts butterflies and other beneficial insects, and provides a good hiding place for birds. Oceanspray is a drought tolerant plant, and makes a good addition to northwest gardens if planted in a rock garden or container with good drainage. -- Margy

5 comments:

  1. Anonymous11:39 AM

    I love plants/shrubs that attract birds and butterflies. Is this a wild plant Margy or one you planted?

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  2. I had no idea what this was - so glad to find out. I've seen it before and even taken pictures, but never knew what it was. We saw the same plant growing in Eastern WA a few years ago - thanks for the info.

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  3. It's an attractive plant!

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  4. I've seen this in a local park, I wondered what it was and now I know!

    It's such a pretty shrub, I like the way it attracts so many pretty butterflies.

    Best Wishes,
    Di.
    ABCW team.

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  5. And here I thought Ocean Spray was cranberry juice!

    ROG, ABCW

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We welcome your comments and questions. - Wayne and Margy