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Oemleria cerasiformis Oso berry Deciduous shrub (1 Page of 5) The Oemleria cerasiformis plant species is found in Western N. America - British Columbia to California. It is a member of the Rosaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Oso berry. Some home gardeners know the variety as Nuttallia cerasiformis. Osmaronia cerasiformis. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Oemleria cerasiformis Common Name: Oso berry Family: Rosaceae Author: (Torr.&Gray.)Greene. Known Hazards: Although no specific mention has been found for this plant. it belongs to a family where the leaves, seed (and sometimes also the fruit) often contain significant amounts of hydrogen cyanide. This is the toxin that gives almonds their characteristic flavour and it should only be eaten in very small quantities. Since the fruit of this species is said to have almond-scented fruit it would be unwise to eat a large quantity of it. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death. Mature Height: 2.5 Mature Width: 4 Habitat: Rocky valleys and canyons by streams, roadsides and moist to fairly dry open woods[60].
Propagation Notes: The seed requires 4 months stratification at 4°c. It is probably best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe in the autumn. Sow stored seed 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 cold frame 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, July/August in a frame.
Layering in spring. Takes 6 months[78].
Suckers, taken at any time in the dormant season[188].
For further Oemleria cerasiformis gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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