LEATHERWOOD Dirca palustris This species is a tough yet flexible native shrub of damp, old-growth forest understories. Extremely shade tolerant, it blooms pale yellow in early spring, feeding queen bees. Jointed twigs bend without breaking. Attractive but caution—bark contact may cause dermatitis. Grows 3–6 feet tall, with candelabra-like branching and yellow fall color display.
Photo Credits:
Flower Bill Cook, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org
