Above, the low-growing, evergreen Oregon-grape is a mainstay of Ouray County forests up to 10,500 feet in elevation and blooms through June into early July. Below right, dense clusters of 25 to 50 bluish-purple berries are trailside favorite snacks of small mammals, birds and hikers who encounter the Oregon-grape. Photos courtesy Jim Pisarowicz
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Oregon-grape: A feast for more than the eyes
To truly appreciate the beauty of the Oregon-grape (Berberis repens), it’s critical to meet it at eye level.
