Estimated Height at Pickup: 1-2', 3 gal

An incredibly shade tolerant shrub and early spring bloomer! Yellow, bell-shaped flowers hang from the branches in early spring and berries ripen in late spring. Requires consistently moist soils rich in organic materials (such as woodland soil) and part or more shade. Fairly slow growing due to its preference for shade. Prone to leaf scorch if it gets too much sun. Sap occasionally causes allergic reactions, and foliage and bark are toxic to humans if ingested. This means they are rarely browsed by mammals.

Pollination: Self pollinating.

Light: Part Sun/Shade, Shade

Soil Moisture: Wet, Wet Mesic, Mesic

Soil Type: Loam, Sandy Loam, Rocky Loam

Height: 3’-7’

Width: 3’-6’

Bloom Color: Yellow

Bloom Time: Apr-May

Fruit: Yellow-red drupes (berries) mature in late spring.

Fall Color: Yellow

Root Type: Branching

Notable Wildlife Interactions: Flowers attract small bees. Hosts at least two species of moth and a few smaller insects. Berries are likely eaten by woodland birds and mammals.

Notes: Branches are extremely flexible, and Native Americans used outer bark for cordage and basket making. Can be very long lived despite its size.