Stretchberry (Forestiera pubescens, Trans. Amer. Philos. Soc., n.s., 5: 177 (1835))

Family: Oleaceae

Author: Nutt.

Bibliography: Trans. Amer. Philos. Soc., n.s., 5: 177 (1835)

Year: 1835

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Forestiera

Vegetable: False

Observations: WC. & SW. U.S.A. to N. Mexico

Description

Stretchberry, known scientifically as Forestiera pubescens, is a resilient and versatile plant that belongs to the Oleaceae family. Described by Nutt. in the “Transactions of the American Philosophical Society” in 1835, this species has been recognized for its unique characteristics and wide-ranging habitat. Stretchberry thrives in the wild landscapes of the West Coast and Southwestern United States, stretching down into Northern Mexico.

This plant is well-adapted to diverse environmental conditions, flourishing in regions that often experience climatic extremes. Its tenacity makes it a valuable component of the native flora in these areas. Forestiera pubescens is not only noted for its ecological adaptability but also for its role in sustaining local wildlife. Birds and other small creatures frequently feed on its berries, making it an integral part of the food web.

In addition to its ecological value, Stretchberry has garnered attention for its potential uses in landscape restoration and xeriscaping. Its ability to withstand drought and poor soil conditions makes it an attractive option for gardeners and environmentalists aiming to cultivate resilient and sustainable green spaces. Through continued study and appreciation of Forestiera pubescens, efforts to conserve and utilize native plant species are enriched, ensuring that the natural beauty and function of our ecosystems are maintained.

Common Names

Eng: stretchberry
En: Stretchberry, Desert olive, Downy forestiera, Elbowbush
Nv: Mąʼiidą́ą́ʼ

Synonyms

• Forestiera ligustrina var. pubescens ((Nutt.) A.Gray)
• Adelia pubescens ((Nutt.) Kuntze)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Texas (native)
• Utah (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 4, 2012 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 7, 2015 by EOL − Bob O’Kennon (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 22, 2016 by EOL − kevinhintsa (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 27, 2016 by EOL − Jim Varnum (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 7, 2021 by yoan L (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken May 8, 2021 by Wil Oden (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2020 by Francisco Cerda (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 27, 2020 by tiffany james (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 27, 2020 by Saveena Taylor (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 5, 2022 by Angela Ledesma (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken May 8, 2021 by Wil Oden (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 9, 2013 by EOL − Judith Lopez Sikora (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 25, 2005 by EOL − J. E.(Jed) and Bonnie McClellan (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 22, 2016 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 20, 2016 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Feb 21, 2016 by EOL − Bob O’Kennon (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 20, 2016 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 20, 2016 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 16, 2015 by EOL − Shelia Hargis (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 16, 2015 by EOL − Shelia Hargis (cc-by-nc)

Fruit

Taken Oct 11, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 4, 2012 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 11, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Aug 24, 2022 by raven arbuckle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 27, 2020 by Saveena Taylor (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3172385)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:608873-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Forestiera pubescens Nutt.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Shrub

Growth