Holodiscus discolor, commonly called oceanspray, because of its frothy pendants of white flowers, is a deciduous shrub found in the wild from southern British Columbia into California. In its natural habitat, it can grow to 20' tall, but can be pruned to a much smaller size for the garden. It begins its floral display in early summer with fragrant, creamy white flowers. These then dry to a brownish color and can persist into winter. Oceanspray prefers partial to full sun and dry soils. It is very tolerant of drought and poor soil and is frequently used for erosion control on bluffs and steep slopes.

The flowers attract pollinators and the larvae of several native moths and butterflies feed on oceanspray foliage. It makes an attractive addition to native plant hedgerow and is part of our hedgerow at the southern edge of the garden.

Native people called Holodiscus discolor "Ironwood," for the strength of its wood, which was used to make spears, bows and arrows, harpoons and digging tools.