Osage orange

A hardy, fast-growing tree known for its bright green “hedge apple” fruits, tough wood, and excellent windbreak qualities. Thrives in Zones 5–9, tolerates poor soil, drought, and wind. Perfect for living fences, wildlife habitat, and long-term homestead planting. Low-maintenance and extremely resilient.

Plant typeFruit Tree

Out of season — ordering reopens in November.

Browse varieties and plan your planting now. Product pages remain available year-round.

CA$7.00from · CAD

Ordering reopens in November

Quantity

Osage orange—

CA$7.00

CA$7.00from · CAD

Ordering reopens in November

Quantity

Osage orange—

CA$7.00

What do the plant forms mean?

Pot-ready — Established in a nursery pot with soil, so the planting window is flexible — hold it happily for weeks before it goes in the ground.

Why buy from Little Tree Farm?

Locally grown in Nova Scotia
Climate ready & hardy
Carefully packed for safe delivery
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Product details

About Osage orange

Osage Orange Tree – Maclura pomifera The Osage Orange Tree is a tough, fast-growing, and extremely resilient tree known for its striking green, grapefruit-sized fruits and strong, rot-resistant wood. This hardy species is valued for windbreaks, living fences, wildlife habitat, and long-term homestead planting. Sizes Explained A Grade (Ground-Ready): Stronger, thicker stems for instant planting. B Grade (Ground-Ready): suitable for planting directly in the ground. Pot-Ready: Start in a pot or nursery bed for one season before transplanting. Key Features Extremely hardy, drought-tolerant tree Fast-growing and long-lived Distinctive bumpy green fruits Dense wood—one of the strongest North American hardwoods Excellent for hedges, windbreaks, and wildlife cover Mature Size & Growth Habit of the Osage Orange The Osage Orange develops a dense, full crown with strong upright branches. Height: 30–50 ft (9–15 m) Spread: 20–40 ft (6–12 m) Naturally forms a thick, impenetrable hedge when planted densely Thorny branches create excellent livestock barriers (natural fencing) Fruit & Wildlife Value The large green fruits, sometimes called “hedge apples,” are not typically eaten by humans, but they offer other benefits: Wildlife uses the fruit for shelter and forage Seeds attract squirrels and small mammals Fruits add ornamental and seasonal interest Historically believed to deter insects when placed in barns or basements Growing Conditions Osage Orange is one of the easiest trees to grow: Hardy in Zones 5–9 Thrives in full sun Tolerates poor soil, clay, drought, and wind Resistant to disease and pests Great for homesteads, farms, and natural wind barriers Why Grow an Osage Orange? One of the most durable woods in North America Historically prized for making bows Excellent as a natural living fence Great long-term tree for shelterbelts Low-maintenance and extremely tough What You’ll Receive Your Osage Orange tree is shipped bare-root in early spring, ready for planting. Strong, healthy seedlings grown with care ensure fast establishment and long-term success. Tough, Adaptable, and Perfect for Challenging Sites The Osage Orange is one of the most adaptable trees you can plant. It thrives where many other species struggle — dry fields, windy hilltops, poor soil, and heavy clay are no problem. Once established, it requires almost no care. This makes it an excellent choice for property owners who want a reliable, long-lived tree with minimal maintenance. Natural Windbreak and Shelterbelt This tree excels at creating strong wind protection. Its dense branching, fast growth, and deep root system make it a dependable shelterbelt species. Plant in rows for a long-lasting windbreak that will protect gardens, livestock, and buildings. The Osage Orange maintains its strength and form even in tough storms, offering consistent environmental benefits year after year. Living Fences and Homestead Use Historically, Osage Orange earned the nickname “hedge tree” because it was widely planted as a living fence before barbed wire was invented. When planted densely, the thorny branches form an almost impenetrable barrier. Homesteaders and farmers still use it today for natural fencing, wildlife corridors, and boundary lines. It offers a sustainable, low-maintenance alternative to wooden or metal fencing. Unique Fruits and Old-World Character The striking green “hedge apples” add seasonal charm and curiosity to the landscape. While not commonly eaten, the fruit is unique and decorative. The seeds attract wildlife, and many people enjoy using the fruit for fall displays. Its unusual appearance makes the tree a conversation piece in gardens and farmyards. Exceptionally Strong Wood The wood of Osage Orange is incredibly dense and rot resistant — one of the most durable woods in North America. Historically, Indigenous communities prized it for making powerful, long-lasting bows. Even today, the wood is valued for fence posts, tool handles, and specialty woodworking. Its durability ensures that any fallen branches or cuttings can be repurposed for practical use. Suitability for Canadian Growers Despite its southern origin, Osage Orange performs surprisingly well in parts of Canada. It thrives in: Southern Ontario Southern Quebec Nova Scotia (in warmer or protected sites) Maritime microclimates Prairie shelterbelts (zone-dependent) Its cold hardiness, drought tolerance, and adaptability make it a smart long-term planting choice for eco-conscious growers and rural landowners.

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American Persimmon
American Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) A Grade (Ground-Ready): Stronger, thicker stems for instant planting. B Grade (Ground-Ready): Smaller than A grade and suitable for planting directly in the ground. Pot-Ready: Start in a pot or nursery bed for one season before transplanting. Key Features American persimmon produces rich, sweet, caramel-flavoured fruit that becomes soft and delicious after the first frost. Exceptionally cold-hardy and resilient , thriving in regions far too cold for Asian persimmons. Fragrant spring flowers attract pollinators, followed by glowing orange fruit that ripens in late fall. Known for its strong, durable wood and beautiful natural form, making it both a fruit tree and an ornamental. Excellent for fresh eating (when fully ripe), baking, preserves, and traditional homestead recipes. Growth & Planting USDA Planting Zone: 4–9 (very hardy in the northern U.S. and Canada) Sunlight: Full sun for best fruiting; tolerates part shade. Soil: Adaptable to clay, loam, and sandy soils; prefers well-drained ground. pH Range: 6.0–7.5 Spacing: 20–30 ft for full-size trees. Mature Size: 30–50 ft tall, 20–30 ft wide. Pollination: Many seedlings require a male and female tree for fruiting; some seedlings may be self-fruitful, but not guaranteed. Why Grow American Persimmon? One of the hardiest fruit trees for cold climates, thriving where many fruit species struggle. Low-maintenance, long-lived , and extremely tolerant of drought, poor soil, and tough conditions. Produces flavourful, unique fruit with a taste unlike anything else—perfect for homesteads, food forests, and regenerative plantings. Do I need two trees? Yes — we strongly recommend buying two persimmon seedlings . American persimmons are usually male or female , and seedlings don’t reveal their sex until they’re older. Planting two increases your chances of getting both a male and a female , which means proper pollination and a full crop of fruit . One tree may grow well, but without a pollinating partner, it may not produce persimmons. Appearance: The tree's oval-rounded leaves, measuring 10-15cm, initially emerge as a deep, glossy green when young. As the seasons transition to autumn, this tree dons its finest attire by producing orange-yellow fruits, typically round to oval in shape and measuring 3-5cm in diameter. These fruits are nature's treasures, sweetest after experiencing a touch of chilly weather. Cultivation: American Persimmons thrive in warm, sunny climates, making them an ideal choice for gardens in southern Ontario, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick in Canada. And of course the United States. While they appreciate the sun's warmth, they do not tolerate extreme cold, ensuring their adaptability in a variety of settings. Unique Traits: One of the most captivating features of the American Persimmon is its dioecious nature, which means that individual trees can be male or female. However, the majority of cultivars are self-fertile, producing an abundance of fruit without the need for a male companion. These fruits are a real treat, known for their sweetness and unique flavor profile. They start out astringent when firm but soften as they ripen. Cold-Hardy and Remarkable Storage: What sets the American Persimmon apart is its ability to endure freezing temperatures. Even as winter's chill sets in, these fruits remain edible, standing strong on the tree until December. When they transition to a delightful shade of orange, they're ready to be picked. For those who can't wait, simply place them in a paper bag with apples to expedite the ripening process. Alternatively, you can freeze them overnight for a delectable frozen treat, perfect for enjoying the next day. Why Choose the American Persimmon? Aside from its stunning visual appeal, the American Persimmon is a perfect choice for those seeking a unique addition to their orchard. Its adaptability to various climates, self-fertility, and the exceptional taste of its fruits make it a top contender for both seasoned gardeners and newcomers alike. Plus, its cultural and historical significance adds a layer of depth to your garden's story. Order Yours Today: Experience the charm of the American Persimmon in your own garden. Place your order today at our online nursery. We're dedicated to providing you with healthy, vibrant trees that will thrive and bear delicious fruits for years to come. Transform your landscape with the allure of the American Persimmon – a sweet delight waiting to grace your orchard.
CA$11.00from · CAD
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Autumn Olive - Elaeagnus Umbellata
Autumn Olive - Elaeagnus Umbellata This year our Autumn Olive plants are between 6 - 12 inches in height. Strong and healthy shrubs that you can plant either in the garden or pots. Give these plants extra care during their growth cycle during the spring and summer period. Elaeagnus umbellata, widely recognized as Japanese silverberry or autumn olive, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family. This species is indigenous to East Asia, specifically Japan, Korea, and parts of China, and has been introduced to various regions, including North America, where it is now considered naturalized in many areas. The plant exhibits a versatile range of ecological and ornamental qualities, contributing to its popularity in landscaping and ecological restoration projects. In terms of physical characteristics, Elaeagnus umbellata can grow up to 10 feet in height, with a slightly spreading habit. The foliage consists of alternate leaves that are lanceolate to ovate in shape, typically measuring 2 to 4 inches long. The upper leaf surface is a rich green, while the underside is covered in silvery scales, resulting in a striking contrast that gives rise to its common name, silverberry. Its fragrant, yellowish-white flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, resembling small clusters, while the fruit ripens into small, reddish-orange drupes by late summer. The berry-like fruits are edible and have a sweet-tart flavor, attracting various wildlife, which assists in its propagation. The geographical distribution of Elaeagnus umbellata extends beyond its native habitat due to its adaptability to different soil types and climatic conditions. It thrives in disturbed areas, roadsides, and open fields, often colonizing in large patches. The names "autumn olive" stem from its fruiting period during autumn, and the olivaceous appearance of its leaves, respectively. Each of these common names reflects an essential aspect of the plant’s biology, highlighting its unique attributes and ecological role. Uses and Benefits of Japanese Silverberry The Japanese silverberry, scientifically known as Elaeagnus umbellata , is a multifaceted plant renowned for its numerous environmental, culinary, and medicinal advantages. One of its most significant ecological roles is its capability to fix nitrogen in the soil. This unique trait not only enhances soil fertility, but also promotes healthier ecosystems by enriching the soil quality, thus benefiting other plants and organisms within the environment. In culinary contexts, the Japanese silverberry’s small, edible fruits are gaining popularity for their distinctive taste and health benefits. These berries can be consumed fresh, dried, or made into jams, jellies, and sauces, adding versatility to various dishes. Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds, Elaeagnus umbellata offers a nutritional boost that appeals to health-conscious consumers. From a landscaping perspective, the plant’s resilience and adaptability make it a favored choice for gardens and permaculture designs. It thrives in diverse environments, tolerating poor soils and varying moisture conditions. Its ability to enhance biodiversity while providing aesthetic value contributes to its increasing incorporation in sustainable gardening practices. However, it is essential to consider its potential invasiveness in certain regions, which necessitates careful management strategies to prevent ecological imbalance. The Japanese silverberry exemplifies a versatile plant that offers exceptional benefits across multiple domains, from environmental health and culinary applications to medicinal uses and landscaping. While its advantages are manifold, responsible management remains crucial for sustainable integration into natural habitats.
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Black Chokeberry - Aronia Melanocarpa
Black Chokeberry - Aronia Melanocarpa Sizes Explained Pot-Ready: Start in a pot or nursery bed for one season before transplanting. Aronia melanocarpa, commonly known as black chokeberry, belongs to the Rosaceae family, which encompasses a variety of flowering plants, including roses and fruit-bearing shrubs. This deciduous shrub can grow to a height of 3 to 6 feet and is characterized by its glossy green leaves that turn a vibrant red during the autumn months. The black chokeberry is particularly noted for its clusters of small, round berries that appear in late summer, which transition from a green hue to a deep purple or black upon ripening. These berries are not only visually striking but are also known for their high levels of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which confer numerous health benefits. Key Features Superfood berry shrub known for its extremely high antioxidants (higher than blueberries). Produces glossy black berries great for juice, wine, jams, syrups, baking, and drying. White spring blossoms followed by brilliant red fall colour , making it both edible and ornamental. Highly adaptable and thrives in tough conditions—wet soils, dry soils, clay, sand, or loam. Native to North America , excellent for pollinators and wildlife. Self-fertile and highly productive once established. Growth & Planting USDA Planting Zone: 3–8 Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (best fruiting in full sun). Soil: Tolerates wet, dry, acidic, neutral, and clay soils; very adaptable. pH Range: 5.0–7.0 Spacing: 3–5 ft between plants; 6–8 ft between rows. Mature Size: 4–8 ft tall and wide depending on conditions. Growth Rate: Moderate; forms a neat, dense shrub. Why Grow Black Chokeberry? Easy, low-maintenance berry shrub for cold climates. Excellent for hedges, food forests, wildlife plantings, and homestead orchards. Reliable yields even in poor soil or challenging sites. Perfect for Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada , thriving in both wet and dry ground. Native to North America , Aronia melanocarpa thrives in a wide range of habitats, primarily found in regions spanning from Canada to the central United States. Especially common from Newfoundland to Ontario, where the shrub often grows in forested areas, wetlands, and along riverbanks. These environments provide the black chokeberry with optimal conditions for growth, such as well-drained, acidic soils and full sunlight. Although it is remarkably adaptable to varying soil types and moisture levels. One of the notable aspects of Aronia melanocarpa is its ability to withstand harsh conditions, including drought and poor soil quality. Making it an excellent candidate for landscaping and ecological restoration projects. Often appreciated for its ornamental qualities, as the shrub produces white or pink flowers in the spring that attract pollinators. The resilience and adaptability of the black chokeberry set it apart from many other members of the rose family, establishing its significance not only in horticulture but also in agricultural practices aimed at promoting biodiversity and sustainability. Health Benefits and Culinary Uses of Black Chokeberry Black chokeberry, scientifically known as Aronia melanocarpa, is widely recognized for its impressive health benefits, largely attributed to its high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential nutrients. Numerous studies have highlighted that these berries are particularly rich in anthocyanins, which are compounds responsible for their deep purple-black hue. Research indicates that the consumption of black chokeberries may play a role in reducing oxidative stress, thereby contributing to better overall health and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. An important aspect of black chokeberry is its strong anti-inflammatory properties. These berries contain a variety of vitamins including vitamin C and vitamin K. The fiber content in black chokeberries aids in digestive health, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. Incorporating these berries into one’s diet can thus serve to enhance nutritional intake while supporting overall wellness. To enjoy the culinary versatility of black chokeberries, one can consider various methods of preparation. They can be consumed fresh or used to create delicious jams, jellies, or syrups. Their tart flavor also pairs well with an array of dishes. For instance, black chokeberries can be added to smoothies for a nutritious beverage or incorporated into baked goods such as muffins and pies, providing a unique twist to traditional recipes. Additionally, they can be used in salads or as a topping for yogurt, enhancing both the taste and nutritional profile of the meal. For those interested in culinary experiments, a simple way to prepare black chokeberries is by creating a sauce that can accompany meats or vegetables. By simmering the berries with sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of water, one can develop a flavorful sauce that complements various dishes. This not only highlights the berries' natural sweetness but also allows for the exploration of their potential beyond mere decoration in the garden.
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Blackcurrant
Ribes nigrum
Black currant plants are easy to grow and are dependable more so than fruit trees, if given good care. Grown for it's edible glossy black berries it is a medium sized woody shrub producing fruit in the summer months. Which are rich in sources of vitamin C. Size: Black currants grow into a 4 foot by 4 foot shrub. My recommendation. Plant 4 or more to get your fair share of berries. Freeze them and you'll have a years supply. The growing of shrub fruits such as black currants are not difficult, but there are good practices that are important for good results. The plants will live almost anywhere doing best in relatively moist climate and well drained soil. Plant growth and and fruitfulness are most satisfactory on soils well supplied with organic matter. Pruning black currants is necessery and should be done a little each year. Black currants are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of recipes. They have a sweet, tangy flavor and can be used as a juice or in jams and jellies and WINE! Make them into desserts such as pies, tarts, cakes and muffins. They can also be used to make black currant syrup, which can be used to flavor ice cream and other sweet treats. Key Features Known for its deep, rich flavour and extremely high antioxidant content—one of the most nutrient-dense berries you can grow. Produces heavy clusters of dark, aromatic berries ideal for jams, jellies, cordials, syrups, wines, and baking. Cold-hardy, vigorous, and disease-resistant , thriving in northern climates with minimal care. Compact, productive shrubs that reliably fruit year after year. Attractive spring flowers develop into long strings of glossy black berries in mid-summer. Growth & Planting USDA Planting Zone: 2–7 Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (full sun gives best yields). Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained loam; tolerates clay and varied soils. pH Range: 5.5–7.0 Spacing: 4–5 ft between plants. Mature Size: 3–5 ft tall and wide. Pollination: Self-fertile , but multiple plants increase production. Why Grow Black Currant? Offers exceptionally high yields and some of the healthiest berries available . Perfect for food forests, homesteads, hedgerows, and cool-climate gardens. Hardy, adaptable, and a reliable performer across Nova Scotia and all of Canada .

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Black Chokeberry - Aronia Melanocarpa

Black Chokeberry - Aronia Melanocarpa Sizes Explained Pot-Ready: Start in a pot or nursery bed for one season before transplanting. Aronia melanocarpa, commonly known as black chokeberry, belongs to the Rosaceae family, which encompasses a variety of flowering plants, including roses and fruit-bearing shrubs. This deciduous shrub can grow to a height of 3 to 6 feet and is characterized by its glossy green leaves that turn a vibrant red during the autumn months. The black chokeberry is particularly noted for its clusters of small, round berries that appear in late summer, which transition from a green hue to a deep purple or black upon ripening. These berries are not only visually striking but are also known for their high levels of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which confer numerous health benefits. Key Features Superfood berry shrub known for its extremely high antioxidants (higher than blueberries). Produces glossy black berries great for juice, wine, jams, syrups, baking, and drying. White spring blossoms followed by brilliant red fall colour , making it both edible and ornamental. Highly adaptable and thrives in tough conditions—wet soils, dry soils, clay, sand, or loam. Native to North America , excellent for pollinators and wildlife. Self-fertile and highly productive once established. Growth & Planting USDA Planting Zone: 3–8 Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (best fruiting in full sun). Soil: Tolerates wet, dry, acidic, neutral, and clay soils; very adaptable. pH Range: 5.0–7.0 Spacing: 3–5 ft between plants; 6–8 ft between rows. Mature Size: 4–8 ft tall and wide depending on conditions. Growth Rate: Moderate; forms a neat, dense shrub. Why Grow Black Chokeberry? Easy, low-maintenance berry shrub for cold climates. Excellent for hedges, food forests, wildlife plantings, and homestead orchards. Reliable yields even in poor soil or challenging sites. Perfect for Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada , thriving in both wet and dry ground. Native to North America , Aronia melanocarpa thrives in a wide range of habitats, primarily found in regions spanning from Canada to the central United States. Especially common from Newfoundland to Ontario, where the shrub often grows in forested areas, wetlands, and along riverbanks. These environments provide the black chokeberry with optimal conditions for growth, such as well-drained, acidic soils and full sunlight. Although it is remarkably adaptable to varying soil types and moisture levels. One of the notable aspects of Aronia melanocarpa is its ability to withstand harsh conditions, including drought and poor soil quality. Making it an excellent candidate for landscaping and ecological restoration projects. Often appreciated for its ornamental qualities, as the shrub produces white or pink flowers in the spring that attract pollinators. The resilience and adaptability of the black chokeberry set it apart from many other members of the rose family, establishing its significance not only in horticulture but also in agricultural practices aimed at promoting biodiversity and sustainability. Health Benefits and Culinary Uses of Black Chokeberry Black chokeberry, scientifically known as Aronia melanocarpa, is widely recognized for its impressive health benefits, largely attributed to its high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential nutrients. Numerous studies have highlighted that these berries are particularly rich in anthocyanins, which are compounds responsible for their deep purple-black hue. Research indicates that the consumption of black chokeberries may play a role in reducing oxidative stress, thereby contributing to better overall health and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. An important aspect of black chokeberry is its strong anti-inflammatory properties. These berries contain a variety of vitamins including vitamin C and vitamin K. The fiber content in black chokeberries aids in digestive health, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. Incorporating these berries into one’s diet can thus serve to enhance nutritional intake while supporting overall wellness. To enjoy the culinary versatility of black chokeberries, one can consider various methods of preparation. They can be consumed fresh or used to create delicious jams, jellies, or syrups. Their tart flavor also pairs well with an array of dishes. For instance, black chokeberries can be added to smoothies for a nutritious beverage or incorporated into baked goods such as muffins and pies, providing a unique twist to traditional recipes. Additionally, they can be used in salads or as a topping for yogurt, enhancing both the taste and nutritional profile of the meal. For those interested in culinary experiments, a simple way to prepare black chokeberries is by creating a sauce that can accompany meats or vegetables. By simmering the berries with sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of water, one can develop a flavorful sauce that complements various dishes. This not only highlights the berries' natural sweetness but also allows for the exploration of their potential beyond mere decoration in the garden.

Osage orange

About Osage orange

Designed To Thrive Where You Live

Plants that grow well together

Plants that grow well together