Blackberries provide pollen and nectar for many insects and songbirds. They are also a food source sought after by deer, turkeys, rabbits, quail, coyotes, and possums. Native varieties that have thorns provide shelter for smaller animals and make great nesting sites for some species of birds.
Blueberries are a great food source for birds and other animals. The carpenter bee and blueberry bee forage almost exclusively on the flowers during bloom time.
Buttonbush nectar is great for attracting butterflies, moths, and other insects. This native produces nut-like seeds that are a great source of food for waterfowl and makes a great nesting site for birds.
Chokeberry provides a source of food for white-tailed deer and rabbits to browse on and fruits for ruffed and sharp-tailed grouse. This plant also provides great cover and nesting sites for birds.
Great source of nectar for bees. In the U.S., honey made from bees foraging this plant is highly rated. White-tail deer also enjoy browsing this plant though it is somewhat resistant to permanent damage when browsing occurs. Inkberry is also the host plant for the Henry's Elfin butterfly. These adult butterflies are attracted to the blooms. The fruit provides a source of food for birds and other small mammels.
Oakleaf Hydrangea flowers are attractive to butterflies and other insects. The seeds are a food source for songbirds. Rabbits enjoy browsing on the leaves of the oakleaf hydrangea but due to the plants toughness, it tends to bounce back quickly.
Southeast United States
Viburnum Arrow-Wood
Viburnum dentatum
Berry-like drupes provide source of food and attract birds and other mammels. Native Americans reportedly used the straight stems for arrows, hence the name.
Excellent provider of cover that provides winter and extreme weather protection. Wax Myrtle is the host plant for the Red-Banded Hairstreak butterfly. Fruits provide food source for birds, especially the Yellow- Rumped Warblers.
