Country Ecology: Burning bush

I find it hard to complain about the striking burning bush shrubs around my domicile. This dependable, showy species is one of the great beauties of the autumn season in New England. It is distinguished by vibrant, lingering, scarlet foliage and small red-orange fruit during our colorful fall, as well as the unusual corky “wings” which flare out along its branches.

The large one out front often hosts migrating thrushes at that time, as well as the male cardinal and his mate feeding on the bright orange-red berries. I have a second one outside my office window, and commonly watch my favorite birds like white-throated sparrows, juncos, titmice and chickadees peck around in its textured branches for remaining forage as I type.