Holodiscus dumosus - (Nutt.)Heller.
(Nutt.)Heller.
Rock Spiraea
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Holodiscus dumosus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 4.5 m (14ft 9in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower in July, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Edible Uses
Tea. Fruit - raw or cooked. Small and dry. The leaves can be steeped in water to make a tea.
Medicinal Uses
Antiseptic Astringent StomachicA decoction of the root has been used in the treatment of diarrhoea and stomach disorders. A decoction of the stems has been used in the treatment of colds and stomach disorders. A decoction of the flowers, leaves and stems has been used as an antiseptic wash.
Distribution
Western N. America - Wyoming to Texas, Arizona and New Mexico.
Where It Grows
NORTHERN AMERICA: United States (Colorado, Idaho, Oregon (e. & c.), Wyoming (south), New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, California (northwest), Nevada, Utah), Mexico (Baja California (Norte), Chihuahua)
Cultivation
Succeeds in a good loamy soil that does not become too dry in summer in full sun or light shade. Plants are hardy to about -15c.
Propagation
The seed requires 4 months stratification at 4°c. It is best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. Stored seed should be sown as early in the year as possible. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood with a heel, July/August in a frame. Can be difficult. Layering in spring. Easy.
