With beautiful foliage, and dark purple flowers, this shrub has an interesting, distinct look. It is winter deciduous, takes full to part sun. From streambanks and canyons below 5000 feet, in partial shade it is drought tolerant. Very desireable on account of its handsome foliage and also for its bright colored berries.
Birds love the berries.
Cut sprigs can be used for holiday decorations. A showy plant, it is well suited for dry rocky slopes and desert regions. Give it sun, and very good drainage. Fast growing, it will reach about 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and bloom in spring and summer. It thrives in inland valleys and takes full sun.