Home Prairie and Wetland Center
16245 S US Hwy 71
Belton, MO 64012
Tel: (816) 331-9738
Fax: (816) 331-9739

Dirca palustris

Leatherwood

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Dirca palustris (Leatherwood)

This is a woodland shrub that has been grown for years as a collector's plant. The plant is adaptable to woodland-type shade and wet soils. The name Palustris means 'growing in a swamp.' In March and April, small yellow flowers are produced before the leaves emerge. The oval-shaped fruits, which ripens in May and June, are enjoyed by the birds. The shiny green leaves are held alternately on the greenish-yellow stems.

Additional Information:


Height
4-7 Feet

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Spread
3-5 Feet

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Bloom/Seasonal Color
Light Green


USDA Hardiness Zone 4-9

Home Owner Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Good Companions
Pawpaw (Asimina triloba), Baldcypress (Taxodium distichum), Marsh Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), Joe Pye Weed (Eupatorium purpureum)

Characteristics & Attributes

Hydrologic Designation

FAC

Nature Attracting

Songbird

Season of Interest

Mid (May-June)
Early (Feb-Apr)

Soil Moisture

Moderate
High

Special Features

Interesting Bark

Special Uses

Bog

Sun Exposure

Shade

USFS MO Ecological Map

Wildlife Benefit

Nesting
Food/Birds