46. Indian Plum

This member of the rose family is the earliest blooming native shrub we have on the property.  In most years it starts to bloom in February, although this year the first flowers are starting to open now.  Indian Plum usually has separate male and female plants, and although we only have a few on the property, we have some of each.  The female plants bear orange drupes (plum-like fruits) that eventually turn deep blue - although they seldom last that way for very long as they are usually eaten by American Robins very quickly.
Indian Plum is useful in the garden because of it's early bloom.  Plants are easily propagated from hard wood cuttings taken in the fall.  

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