{"title":"Hedgerow \u0026 Shade","description":"\u003cp\u003eWindbreak, hedgerow and shade plants for the northern Rockies.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"siberian-peashrub-peashrub","title":"Siberian Peashrub (Bundle of 3)","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSiberian pea shrub (often called Siberian peashrub or caragana) is a cold-climate, drought-tolerant, nitrogen-fixing woody legume widely planted in North America as a shelterbelt and windbreak species. It also produces edible pods and seeds that have documented human uses, and it has a well-documented history of use as animal fodder and poultry feed in cold regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCaragana arborescens is native to northern Asia (commonly summarized as Siberia and Manchuria\/northeast Asia). It was introduced and then widely planted in North America, particularly in prairie and northern farming regions, because it tolerates wind, drought, and severe winters and forms dense hedges useful for shelterbelts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFruit \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCaragana arborescens produces pea-like pods (legumes). The most defensible, well-supported claims about human edibility are:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePods and seeds are edible: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ejournal.sinica.edu.tw\/bbas\/content\/2012\/1\/Bot531-01\/Bot531-01.html\"\u003eA peer-reviewed review\u003c\/a\u003e (Botanical Studies, 2012) explicitly states that the pods and seeds of Caragana arborescens are edible and are cultivated as a vegetable (citing Meng et al., 2009).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYoung pods eaten as a vegetable: The \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/plants.usda.gov\/DocumentLibrary\/plantguide\/doc\/pg_caar18.docx\"\u003eUSDA Plant Guide\u003c\/a\u003e notes that young pods have been used as a vegetable by some ethnic groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat we're not going to overstate: we're not going to claim a standard culinary tradition, taste profile, or nutritional analysis as settled fact for all contexts. You will find frequently repeated numbers such as “12.4% oil” and “up to 36% protein” in well-known edible-plant compilations, but those are secondary aggregations rather than a modern, variety-and-site-specific lab guarantee. The most accurate way to present these numbers are as reported estimates from edible-plant references, not as a guaranteed analysis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn practical terms, the safest and most accurate wording is this: the seeds are edible when cooked and have documented traditional use, while the young pods have documented use as a cooked vegetable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSiberian peashrub is a large, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub (or small tree if trained accordingly) typically around 15–20 feet tall, often with a somewhat rounded form and upright branching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpacing depends on your goal. For a tight hedge\/shelterbelt, plants are spaced close enough to knit into a barrier (2-5 ft.). For orchard-support or specimen use, spacing is wider to reduce competition and allow full crown development. This would be about 5-7.5 ft. apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlowers are insect-pollinated (commonly by bees) and the plant produces abundant seedpods. Some plant references describe it as self-fertile (i.e., capable of setting seed without requiring a second genotype), but government invasive-species pages tend to focus on seed production and dispersal rather than formal self-fertility statements. The most conservative phrasing is this: it is insect-pollinated and produces abundant viable seed, which is one reason it can spread beyond plantings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is widely planted specifically for extreme cold and is noted by invasive-plant authorities as capable of growing in Zone 2 (which is consistent with its use across very cold northern landscapes), as it can survive down to -50F, or possibly even colder if in protected sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOther Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnimal fodder and feed use is unusually well documented for this species:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePoultry feed (seeds): The USDA Plant Guide includes a \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/plants.usda.gov\/DocumentLibrary\/plantguide\/doc\/pg_caar18.docx\"\u003ehistorical account\u003c\/a\u003e that during World War II, Siberian peasants reportedly kept chicken flocks through winter by feeding them Caragana arborescens seeds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLivestock forage\/browse: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ejournal.sinica.edu.tw\/bbas\/content\/2012\/1\/Bot531-01\/Bot531-01.html\"\u003eThis peer-reviewed Botanical Studies review\u003c\/a\u003e states the plant is used as nutritional livestock forage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrazing by domestic animals: County\/extension weed-control materials \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/cms7files1.revize.com\/cookcountymn\/Departments\/Ag%20Inspector\/Cook%20County%20Minnesota%20Noxious%20Weeds%20Edit%20Final.pdf\"\u003enote\u003c\/a\u003e that goats, sheep, and cattle will graze on Siberian peashrub.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThose three points together support a careful, accurate takeaway: the plant has documented use both as a seed feed (especially poultry) and as browse\/forage for grazing animals, though how much it contributes on-farm depends on stocking pressure, timing, and what else is available in the system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"border:1px solid #cfcfcf;border-left:4px solid #8a1c1c;background:#faf7f6;padding:14px 18px;margin-top:28px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping restrictions — state noxious weed law\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003eSiberian peashrub (\u003cem\u003eCaragana arborescens\u003c\/em\u003e) is a Restricted Noxious Weed in Minnesota, where propagation and sale are prohibited, and a Restricted species under Wisconsin’s NR 40. We \u003cstrong\u003ecannot ship this plant to Minnesota or Wisconsin\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0 0 10px;\"\u003eThis species produces abundant viable seed and can spread beyond plantings. Please check your own state and county noxious-weed list before planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin:0;font-size:0.9em;color:#555;\"\u003eOrders placed to a prohibited state will be cancelled and refunded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Tree Co.","offers":[{"title":"2-3 ft. tall","offer_id":42535087439938,"sku":null,"price":79.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/siberian-peashrub-flowers.jpg?v=1789021077"},{"product_id":"purple-lilac-bundle-of-3","title":"Purple Lilac (Bundle of 3)","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurple lilac is a classic cold-hardy ornamental shrub valued for its fragrance, resilience, and timeless beauty. It is one of the most reliable flowering shrubs for northern climates and will thrive in nearly all of Montana, from valley bottoms to more exposed sites. With its combination of hardiness, ornamental appeal, and utility, purple lilac remains a cornerstone plant in cold-climate landscapes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigins \u0026amp; History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLilacs are native to southeastern Europe and parts of western Asia and have been cultivated for centuries for their fragrance and spring display. Purple-flowering forms, in particular, became widely planted across northern Europe and North America as settlers sought long-lived, dependable ornamentals that could withstand severe winters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Size\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurple lilac grows as a multi-stemmed, upright to rounded shrub, typically reaching 8–12 feet tall and wide over time. It forms a dense framework of woody stems and responds well to periodic renewal pruning. Relative to its size, it is a long-lived shrub, often persisting for decades with minimal care once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness \u0026amp; Adaptability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurple lilac is hardy to at least −50°F and is well suited to nearly all of Montana. It tolerates cold winters, wind, and a wide range of soils, making it one of the most adaptable ornamental shrubs for the region.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrnamental \u0026amp; Landscape Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLilacs are best known for their showy, fragrant purple blossoms that bloom in spring. They provide strong seasonal interest and are commonly used as specimen shrubs, informal hedges, or mass plantings. Because of their dense growth habit and durability, purple lilacs also make an excellent windbreak, especially in exposed or open landscapes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCulinary \u0026amp; Practical Uses of Blossoms\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe blossoms are edible and have a long history of culinary use. Lilac flowers can be used to infuse syrups, sugars, jellies, and beverages, adding a delicate floral aroma. As with all edible flowers, they are best used fresh and in moderation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCut Flowers \u0026amp; Seasonal Enjoyment\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the great joys of lilacs is harvesting them for cut flowers. In Missoula, cutting a fresh bouquet each spring once the blossoms are ready is a seasonal ritual. Properly harvested stems fill a room with fragrance and bring the landscape indoors during lilac season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy We Love Lilacs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurple lilacs combine extreme cold hardiness, beauty, fragrance, usefulness, and longevity in a way few shrubs can. Whether planted for ornament, as a windbreak, or simply for the pleasure of spring bouquets, they are a dependable and rewarding addition to northern landscapes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are 3-5 ft. tall\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Tree Co.","offers":[{"title":"3-5 ft.","offer_id":42535327105090,"sku":null,"price":89.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/purple-lilac-blossoms.jpg?v=1789020871"},{"product_id":"rugose-rose-bundle-of-3","title":"Rugose Rose (Bundle of 3)","description":"\u003ch3\u003eOverview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRugosa rose (\u003cem\u003eRosa rugosa\u003c\/em\u003e) is a resilient, cold-hardy shrub rose widely used in landscapes and natural plantings for its fragrant flowers and showy rose hips.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOrigin and History\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRugosa rose is native to eastern Asia, including northeastern China, Japan, Korea, and southeastern Siberia. It was introduced to Europe and North America in the 1800s, where it became popular for ornamental plantings and coastal stabilization before naturalizing in many regions. The species name \u003cem\u003erugosa\u003c\/em\u003e refers to the wrinkled texture of the leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFlowers, Hips \u0026amp; Uses\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRugosa rose produces fragrant flowers in shades of pink to white, typically in early to mid-summer, with blooms that may continue intermittently through the season. The plant forms large, round orange-red hips in late summer and fall that are rich in vitamin C and used for making jams, jellies, syrups, and herbal teas. Birds and wildlife also feed on the hips through fall and winter. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowth Habit \u0026amp; Spacing\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis species is a multi-stemmed, suckering shrub that typically reaches 4–6 feet tall and wide. It spreads by suckers to form dense thickets if not managed, making it useful for hedges, windbreaks, erosion control, and wildlife habitat. Rugosa rose is tolerant of a wide range of soils, including sandy, clay, and poor soils, and is also salt-spray and drought tolerant once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePollination\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRugosa rose blooms are insect-pollinated and the species is generally considered self-fertile, meaning a single plant can set hips on its own. Cross-pollination with other roses may increase hip set and diversity of seed, but is not required for fruit production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCold Hardiness\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRugosa rose is exceptionally cold-hardy for a woody ornamental. and can survive well into the -40F range. Solid zone 2, even quite possibly zone 1 in a well  protected spot with good air drainage\/no frost pooling. Can grow in vast majority of Montana.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Tree Co.","offers":[{"title":"18-24\"","offer_id":42535402045506,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/rugose-rose-flowers.jpg?v=1789021038"},{"product_id":"hybrid-poplar-bundle-of-3","title":"Hybrid Poplar (Bundle of 3)","description":"\u003cp\u003eNew Variety. Description Coming Soon!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:12px;color:#777;margin-top:24px\"\u003ePhoto credit: “Hybrid-Schwarzpappel” (Populus × canadensis) by Neptuul, via \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Hybrid-Schwarzpappel.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/a\u003e, licensed under \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"\u003eCC BY-SA 4.0\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montana Fruit Trees","offers":[{"title":"3-5 ft.","offer_id":45181660266562,"sku":null,"price":99.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0626\/5687\/2514\/files\/hybrid-poplar-tree.jpg?v=1789021991"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.montanafruittrees.com\/collections\/hedgerow-shade.oembed","provider":"Montana Fruit Trees","version":"1.0","type":"link"}