Oso Berry (Oemleria cerasiformis) aka Indian Plum
If you want spring to come sooner, plant Indian plum! Oemleria cerasiformis is known for being the first deciduous native shrub to bloom in the region. With its late winter/early spring flowers, Indian plum provides an important nectar source for pollinators such as native bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. Indian plum has sweet, white flowers and will produce small, bitter purple fruit that a variety of birds and animals enjoy. Also known as Oso berry, Oregon plum, and sometimes bitter cherry, this shrub is widely tolerant to shade and moisture, though thrives best in well-drained soils with full sun to part shade.
Natalie Quist, 2019-20 AmeriCorps Projects Coordinator, Community Engagement
Sources:
Missouri Botanical Garden: Oemleria cerasiformis
USDA NRCS Plant Fact Sheet: Indian Plum (Oemleria cerasiformis)