Holodiscus discolor
Ocean spray native to Pacific coast with creamy-white flower plumes in summer. Forms large multi-stemmed shrubs with arching branches. The flowers appear in large drooping panicles creating foam-like effect. Native from British Columbia to California in open woods and forest edges.
Adaptable to various conditions from moist to dry once established. The common name refers to the foam-like flower sprays. Suitable for naturalistic plantings, hedgerows, and native gardens. The dried flower plumes persist into fall. Historic use by First Nations for arrow shafts. Drought-tolerant once established. The arching branches create graceful form.
Growing Conditions
Light: full sun to part shade
Moisture: average
Soil: adaptable average to dry
Hardiness zone: 5
Maintenance: low
Size & Habit
Height (cm): 300
Spread (cm): 250
Habit: large multi-stemmed arching
Seasonal Interest
Flowering period: June–July
Seasonal interest: summer bloom; creamy plumes; arching form; native shrub
Foliage: green
Flower: creamy white
Ecology & Notes
Wildlife value: pollinators
Deer/Rabbit resistance: yes
Habitat: native gardens; hedgerows; naturalistic plantings; dry to moist
Features: creamy-white flower plumes; arching branches; foam-like effect; Pacific coast native; drought-tolerant; historic use
Notes: native BC to CA; foam-like flowers; drought-tolerant once established; historic arrow shaft use; dried plumes persist