Leatherwood
Dirca palustris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
48"–120" H × 48"–120" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr
Native to
AL, CT, DE, FL and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Leatherwood is a rare native shrub with distinctive yellow flowers that bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge. It has smooth gray bark and oval leaves that turn yellow in fall, creating a naturally rounded form.
In an HOA neighborhood
Leatherwood takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Looks bare and sparse when dormant
- Informal woodland appearance
- Can appear unkempt without leaves
Wildlife value
The early spring flowers provide nectar for bees and flies when few other sources are available. The flexible branches and dense growth provide nesting sites for birds.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Leatherwood fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.