Indian Plum in bloom, photographer Martha Rasmussen
A true harbinger of springtime, Indian Plum is the earliest blooming shrub in the
Darrington area. Clusters of buds open up to
small whitish-green bell shaped flowers in late March just about the same time
when the western Bleeding Heart begins
to bloom. After the flowers begin to appear they are followed by light
green leaves. These will also be the first green leaves on native
shrubs in springtime.
Indian Plum fruits beginning to ripen, photographer Martha Rasmussen
This loosely branched
deciduous shrub grows up to 15 feet high, the leaves are oblong and
grow alternate. The leaves have a scent resembling a cucumber.
After
the flowers are done blooming small oval golden colored fruits begin to
appear. Indian Plum is also called Osoberry, Oso meaning bear and as
the name suggests the fruit is an important part of a bears diet but
competing with various hungry birds, deer and other wildlife. If the
fruit can remain on the plant long enough it will ripen to a deep purple.
Ripe Indian Plum fruit, photographer Shari Brewer
The ripe fruit was also a valuable food source for the
native American both eaten fresh and dried for winter use. As settlers
came to the area they learned the value of this fruit from our
Sauk-Suiattle Tribe and became a popular winter preserve.