A subtle change has happened in the past week.
Ten days ago, we were still in the thick of winter.
Now, signs of spring are beginning to appear here and there.
One sure indication that the days are getting longer and winter is on the wane is the appearance of buds on the Indian plum. Indian plum, or Oso berry, is one of the first native shrubs to blossom in the spring. Take a walk in your local woods and you are likely to see the distinctive vertical leaves, with their strong veins showing. Soon, the dainty white flowers will also appear.
The Oso berry is non-descript for much of the year. From middle spring until late summer, it is just another mid-sized shrub with mid-sized green leaves. In the dead of winter, it is a gangly assortment of long twigs.
In the early spring and fall, the Oso berry shines. The cheery white flowers welcome spring and the fruit shaped like miniature plums add orange, red and purple to a woodland walk in September.
Get out and enjoy. Spring is right around the corner.
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